Change is constant throughout higher education, whether it be in trends, student resources or teaching styles. This year, in an effort to adapt to those changes and anticipate the changes of the future, Waynesburg University underwent a realignment of resources, a process which began with the start of the university’s new strategic plan more than a year ago.

Stacey Brodak, vice president for Institutional Advancement and University Relations, said the pieces of that plan are continuing to fall into place, and the realignment is just one of those pieces.

“We have a strategy, and that includes making changes to make sure we can meet our strategic plan, but also acknowledge the changing times around us in higher education and making sure we are doing what we can to keep our goals and focus consistent,” Brodak said.

As a part of the changes, Brodak said less than 2% of staff positions were eliminated on campus, and many faculty and staff members transitioned into new roles. Included in these changes, Jacqueline Palko transitioned to the role of director of Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions; Heather Bonaventura assumed the role of assistant director of Financial Aid; Joshua Sumpter became the new chaplain; Lauren Bailey transitioned to assistant director of Campus Ministry and Adam Jack is now the new athletic director, in addition to his faculty role.

One new implementation that will have a definite impact on students is the upcoming “Pathways Center,” which will include many services provided for students on campus in a single location. Brian Carr will be director for the program, and Sarah Bell will work with the center as the career development specialist and study abroad coordinator.

Although many changes are taking place within the university, Interim Dean of Students Pat Bristor said she believes all of the changes being made are advantageous to students.

“It is definitely for the benefit of students,” she said. “To help students prepare for their future careers, to follow their passions and to look at vocation. How does the mission of the university and their faith base fit into their jobs? We talk about it in classes. We have done some things outside of the classroom, but I really think, with this realignment, there is going to be more connection to it.”

Brodak said a main goal throughout all the changes taking place is to be student-centered in every decisions, focusing on three themes: value, outcome and learning experience. The aim in the realignment, she said, is to ensure that Waynesburg University’s resources are aligned where they will best serve that purpose.

“We recognize that value and outcomes are incredibly important to our students and incredibly important in higher education right now,” Brodak said. “That has got to be our focus as an institution, making sure we align our resources to make sure we deliver those things to our students and for the future.”

Brodak encourages those interested in the recent changes to read the basic overview of Waynesburg University’s “Strategy for the 21st Century,” found under the Value and Rankings tab on the Waynesburg University website.