A welcome message from the dean of University College, Michael McGuire. To learn more, visit universitycollege.du.edu.
TRANSCRIPT:
Hello, I’m Michael McGuire, the new dean of University College at the University of Denver. For the past two years, I’ve served as interim dean of the college, and this fall I was appointed dean. It’s an exciting time to be leading the college of professional and continuing studies, as higher education continues to be innovative and adapt to the changing needs of career-focused adults. At the University of Denver, we just wrapped up celebrating our sesquicentennial—that’s 150 years of cultivating creativity and inquiry here at the university. I hope you’re as proud as I am to be part of that tradition.
As we start a new year, I wanted to take some time to tell you where we’ve been and where we hope to go in 2015 and beyond.
This past year, we implemented a new learning management system called Canvas that enhances teaching and learning. This integrated set of tools includes built-in multimedia, collaborative workspaces, and better options for you to connect through a mobile app when you’re on the go. We are pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response we’ve received about this new system.
Speaking of different ways to learn, we’re excited that in 2015 we will begin expanding hybrid course offerings where students attend classes on campus some weeks and other weeks online, and begin experimenting with other course formats as online and face-to-face experiences continue to merge for improved learning experiences.
As you know, we’re a great private university dedicated to the public good. Our students and alumni continue to do great things for their careers, families, and communities. This year we honored Bill Burns, a high school teacher entering his 53rd year of teaching who was inspired and reenergized by earning his master’s at University College, so much so, he went back to teach after retiring and earning his degree.
Katherine Mulready is another alum who has exceled in the past several years. She combined her master’s in healthcare leadership from University College with a law degree from Sturm College of Law, and went on to work for Colorado Governor Hickenlooper. Katherine now serves as the Vice President of Legislative Policy for the Colorado Hospital Association—a network of over 100 hospitals and health systems throughout Colorado.
As you can see, our students and alumni have some incredible accomplishments. Now more than ever, employers in the marketplace are seeking a confident and competent workforce with specialized knowledge, along with essential interdisciplinary skills like critical thinking, decision making, communication, and creativity. Those are the essential skills you develop at University College, no matter which program you’re in.
Whether you recently joined us or you’re about to graduate, I want to thank you for being part of the University College community and wish you luck in 2015.