Since its 1884 beginning, The W has always been an innovator. From being founded on the idea that women should have access to higher education to its tradition of excellence in liberal arts and professional education for women and men, The W prepares all of our students for many roles.

Through our new strategic plan, outlined in this issue, we will continue on a path to better serve our students, ensuring The W is around for another 100 years. Our strategic plan is driven by six pillars, including academic excellence; advancement excellence; community connections; degree completion; diversity, equity and inclusion; and financial stability.

As we work through this plan, we know that it takes all of us, students, faculty, staff, alumni, the community and our partners, to achieve greater heights. Our plan also allows to be responsive and adapt to the everchanging landscape of higher education.

While we were hoping to be closer to pre-pandemic normal this fall semester, we will continue to keep a watch on the pandemic and continue to adapt to the recommendations and guidance of the CDC and MSDH.

We look forward to having more on-campus activities and in-person events. Be sure to note Homecoming, April 7-10, 2022, on your calendars!

At press time, we also received news of national rankings bestowed on the university. U.S. News & World Report named The W No. 4 in Top Public Performers on Social Mobility-Regional Universities South and No. 10 among Top Performers on Social Mobility-Regional Universities South. The university moved up to No. 4 as a Best Value School Value School among Public Regional Universities in the South. For the third consecutive year, The W ranked No. 18 among Top Public-Regional Universities South.

In addition to the U.S. News & World Report rankings, The W was the second-highest ranked university in Mississippi on Washington Monthly’s 2021 Best Bang for the Buck: South.

Last but certainly not least and for nine consecutive years, The W was named one of the best colleges in the nation to work for (for shared governance and faculty experience), according to a survey by the Great Colleges to Work For® program. The results were released in a special insert of The Chronicle of Higher Education.

I am grateful for the incredible foundation we have in place. It truly takes a village. Thank you for all you do for our beloved alma mater.

Warmly,

Nora Roberts Miller, Class of 1983
President