Morningside Connect

It’s officially fall here at Morningside!  It seems our campus literally started to change color overnight!  Fall is a great time for me to strategize on the upcoming year.  This summer, I attended a summer institute on assessment.  Assessment is not something I had given a lot of thought to before; however, in learning more about it, I learned it was really applicable to me and my work.  Assessment is really about continued improvement; and striving to up the ante each year.

I think everyone is interested in bettering themselves, but it is easy to sit back and let things be as they have been in the past. Assessment is about identifying not only what you need to work on, but thinking about the things you do well, and how you can capitalize on those strengths.

The institute helped me to see that assessment is about developing learning or process objectives, and then planning activities that are measurable so you can ensure those objectives are being met.  It is about being intentional with these activities, and not assuming that you are meeting the goals you have set just because you think you are.

Assessment is key for working professionals in all aspects of their lives.  Are you meeting the objectives you have set for yourself, not only professionally but personally?  Are you sure? This fall challenge yourself to take the extra step to ensure the steps you are taking are supporting you in your goals.

Also, reflect on your assessment of yourself as an alum.  Are you as involved as you thought you would be?  How do you want to be involved?  How can you connect to campus in a way that is meaningful for you?  If you are struggling with how to reach out and connect with students and campus, please reach out to myself (hays@morningside.edu) or Gene Ambroson (ambroson@morningside.edu). We would love to hear from you!

Stacie Hays