College Updates Following Board of Trustees Meeting​

October 17, 2017

The energy at the Board of Trustees’ meeting this past weekend was palpable. We took up a number of issues that are critical to the future of the college, among them: discussing academic freedom with faculty members, considering plans for facilities and addressing a backlog of maintenance needs on campus, and hearing from a number of students about their experiences. Despite the challenges of the last year, there was a strong sense that many of our initiatives are bearing early fruit and creating a better campus climate. Here’s one story about our progress: a new video on the ways that our efforts and policy changes related to admissions have brought an increasingly talented, engaged, and inclusive student community.

One of the most significant agenda items for this board meeting was a vote on the Bicentennial Strategic Plan. More than a year in the making, the draft plan​ was shared publicly in early September, and we received thoughtful and helpful feedback from Trinity community members both on campus and off. I am delighted to report that the board on Saturday voted unanimously to approve the final plan, which incorporated much of the feedback we received. This vote is a rousing endorsement of the direction in which the college is moving.

Our plan, known as Summit (in reference to our aspirations, of course, as well as a nod to our location on Summit Street in Hartford), will guide us to the college’s Bicentennial in 2023 and beyond. Its 10 overarching goals aim to position Trinity increasingly as a first-choice college for students, faculty, and staff; to connect the college more deeply and meaningfully to Hartford and the world beyond; and to build on our historic past to ensure a financially and environmentally sustainable future. By the end of the month, we’ll launch a website with the full details of the plan, as well as information on how we’re moving to implement its goals and how you can join in the work to make this exciting vision for the future a reality. We need your partnership and support!

These are important and exciting times for our dear Trinity. I’m happy to be leading this great college now and to be partnering with you in building its future.

Sincerely,

Joanne Berger-Sweeney

President and Trinity College Professor of Neuroscience