Colleges and universities across the country are redefining themselves and perfecting the definitions of who they are and who they want to be, said Dr. Ronald E. Carrier, President Emeritus of James Madison University.  "Your work will not be in vain," said Carrier at the March meeting of The Commission for the Future of Radford University.  "It is an important endeavor for this institution," he said.  During his tenure as president of JMU, he led a restructuring effort that helped the university become a force in higher education.

"He brings to us an opportunity to hear from someone who can say 'been there, done that'," said President Penelope W. Kyle during her introduction of Carrier.  "Hopefully, we can emulate his passion, ability and courage," Kyle said.

Four things have the power, Dr. Carrier said, to change any institution, community, state or nation: vision of what should be, passion for that vision, courage, and the ability to use scarce resources to implement that vision.  He stressed that the purpose of the redefining or visioning process is to better serve RU students. “I remember telling my JMU Commission if we lose sight of our students, what we're about, we lose our direction," he added.

This is an exciting time to be in higher education, Carrier said, and an exciting time to be at Radford University.  He cautioned, "do not underestimate where this institution is going to go."

(In the photo: Dr. Carrier and President Kyle.)

After the keynote address, which was attended by over 90 Commission and task force members, the task forces for Driving Forces and Governing Ideas reported on their research progress and findings.  Members of the Driving Forces group presented 15 significant external forces shaping higher education across the nation, including the changing demographics of future student populations and their needs; higher education's political, economic and fiscal environment; and the global marketplace. 

Members of the Task Force for Governing Ideas discussed their survey findings on RU’s core values and campus and alumni wishes for the future.   Stakeholders said their wish list included improved image and reputation, higher academic aspirations, maintaining image of small campus atmosphere and increased school spirit and financial support. Task Force chair Dr. Joe Scartelli said his group will now begin developing its vision statement.

At the meeting's end, President Kyle thanked the Commission and task force members for their hard work and dedication to RU's future. "I could not have done this without you," said Kyle.  "This is a collaborative effort by all of us.  I want to be sure that you feel like your voice is heard, "Kyle said.

The next Commission meeting is scheduled for May.

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