03
September
2010
|
10:39 AM
America/Los_Angeles

University Convocation Celebrates Accomplishments, Looks Toward 2015

University Convocation Celebrates Accomplishments, Looks Toward 2015President Karen S. Haynes took to the stage on Thursday, Aug. 26, during this year's faculty and staff convocation to share how the university has met and surpassed its 2010 goals despite fiscal restraints over the past two years. Convocation is a ceremony held annually to welcome new and returning faculty and staff, review university accomplishments, and set the tone for the new academic year.This fall marks the 20th anniversary of the campus opening its doors to the first class of students. "Over these past 20 years, the pioneering spirit of our founders has been institutionalized into our core," said Haynes. "[CSUSM] has proven itself as a campus in touch with, and responsive to, our region's needs."The university's seven agreements with public schools and other agencies, its partnerships in Southwest Riverside County to support the new CSUSM at Temecula campus, and its community service initiatives are just a few examples Haynes provided of CSUSM as the region's driving force in leading initiatives and partnering to meet community needs. She also reported how CSUSM graduates now reflect and lead the region. In just one year, retention of first-time freshmen increased four percentage points; and remediation rates in English and math increased five points. Additionally, this year the campus was designated a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by the federal government and has already been awarded its first HSI grant of $250,000 for a project through the Department of Biology.As an innovative and best place to work and study, Haynes shared that CSUSM was deemed a Military Friendly School by GI Jobs magazine, as well as recognized for green initiatives.  "We were named the winner of a San Diego Excellence in Energy award for our comprehensive energy conservation project," she said.  "Cal State San Marcos is still the school to beat with a 72 percent recycle rate; and I think you can agree with me, winning this title never gets old!"Haynes's remarks concluded with her vision for the future. "At the culmination of our 20th anniversary, it is time to look toward 2015, our 25th anniversary, and begin to discuss our hopes, dreams, and goals for that milestone," she said.  CSUSM will start preparations for its first comprehensive philanthropic campaign to culminate in 2015.  Campaign priorities will focus on our students, our faculty, our facilities, and our partnerships as well as support University strategic priorities.Haynes made a point during her remarks to thank faculty and staff for their hard work and commitment to the campus. "You...make Cal State San Marcos the place of innovation, growth and knowledge that it is today...Cal State San Marcos is our university! We have made it what it is today! So let's start thinking about tomorrow!"