Finding the Theme

The next review of CMU by our regional accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission, will take place in 2005.  Preparation of the comprehensive self -study is underway. 

A number of universities have found that a useful way of organizing the self-study is to adopt a theme that states the focus of the process.   For example, the University of Northern Colorado adopted “Charting the Future.”  Kalamazoo College’s report used “A Decade of Change, Challenge, and Promise.” 

As the steering committee works to understand the nature of CMU today, we are struck by how CMU has changed since the last accreditation visit.  Beginning with the review of all facets of the university under President Plachta and the subsequent reorganization of the academic division and restructuring of our budget and planning processes to the present increased emphasis on graduate programs under our new Carnegie classification and the commitment to research excellence and student engagement championed by President Rao, it is clear that CMU is evolving.   

The committee working on the self-study believes this sense of transition would make a good theme, but we are looking for a powerful phrase or motto that would capture it.  Ideas from the campus community are welcomed.  What resonates with your experience of CMU as we have changed and are changing?  Is there a better theme that you would like to suggest?  Please send any and all suggestions to Leslie Devine, Warriner 312 (devin1lk@cmich.edu).

Besides the public acclaim you will receive if your suggestion is selected, there is a small prize.