Educational institutions should recognize the pivotal role that their school identity plays as an important factor for current and prospective students and their families. Clarity regarding a school’s goals, plans, and overall orientation holds immense importance for families and students contemplating their attendance. Amidst the recent shifts within the university, I believe it is important for the institution to release a statement explaining its trajectory and plans. The university’s current situation, navigating between a sports-centric focus, a transition to Division III, and simultaneous investments in expansion and program creation, has left existing students in a state of uncertainty. The apparent shift in priorities, such as constructing new sports facilities, is a source of confusion. As students, we yearn to understand if the university aims to sustain its commitment to sports or if it is prioritizing academic growth and program development. This uncertainty echoes among the entire university community, including parents, faculty, and staff.
The desire for clarity on the university’s intentions extends beyond the current student body. Prospective students and their families, committing to a four-year journey, understandably harbor concerns about the institution’s current status and its envisioned destination by the end of their tenure. This information becomes a pivotal factor in their decision-making process, shaping the expectations and experiences of their academic journey. I believe that developing a stronger identity and translating this to the student body would significantly contribute to the ongoing goal of enhancing school pride. The presentation of uncertainty can seldom result in confidence. Every prominent educational institution that I can think of has a clear identity, a plan for improvement, and a strong history that they can rely on.
I’m not suggesting that the university lacks these elements currently, but rather emphasizing the need to communicate them effectively to the public. If a solidified direction is not currently adopted, it is my humble opinion that the university should earnestly work on developing one. Issuing a comprehensive statement of purpose for the next few years becomes imperative in navigating this period of transition. Such a statement would not only address the concerns of current students but also serve as a guiding beacon for prospective students. Understanding the university’s direction during a phase of growth and change is essential for both groups. It signifies a commitment to transparency and allows stakeholders to align their expectations with the institution’s goals. This openness fosters a sense of trust and collaboration within the university community, ensuring everyone is on board with the desired outcome.
Suppose the university is experiencing an identity crisis. In that case, it is an inescapable fact that students feel this sentiment, which may inadvertently prevent the cohesion of the student body and the subsequent adoption of the identity of a Hawk. As a current student, it is my sincere desire that the students leave the university with confidence in their school. I believe that establishing an identity could be the first step to achieving this.
