College Priorities: Conversation & Collaboration | College of Science
August 15, 2018

College Priorities: Conversation & Collaboration

Just a year after becoming an independent college at the University of North Texas, the College of Science is taking measures to ensure success for every student, professor, and researcher in the mathematical and scientific disciplines. The college's recently appointed permanent Dean, Su Gao, has announced the five focus areas for the college to consider while working towards our mission to provide a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative environment for everyone:

  • Research & Scholarly Activity
  • Graduate Studies
  • Undergraduate Studies
  • Resources
  • Community

These focus points led the discussion as over one hundred College of Science faculty, staff, board members, and students gathered last week for the college's second-annual, day-long Priority Workshop. Dr. Pamela Padilla, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, and Dr. John Quintanilla, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, shared presentations regarding the academic state of the College, while the Dean led teamwork activities and lively discussions about the strategic direction of our departments and programs.

The topics and discussions of the day revolved largely around undergraduate retention, facilitating and mentoring the success of all students, and enhancing college-wide career and grant training initiatives. Representatives from every department and program were present to share their perspectives and all participants were encouraged to join the conversation, whether interacting in small groups or sharing with the entire room.

Together, we are working to fostering community and a sense of unity within the College of Science while continuing to integrate a contemporary education in science and mathematics for the pursuit of research. Diversity and inclusion are key to serving our students and fostering an environment of advancement and academic excellence. We're ready for the 2018-19 school year to begin and look forward to welcoming all new and continuing students to their classrooms and labs. Here's to a new year of learning for all of us!