Provost Vidler addressing the audience 
Research Development Coordinator Kelly McNear and Provost Vidler, post pie-ing 
Chancellor Sobanet speaking with fellow town hall attendees 
Kelly McNear pies the Provost 
Provost Vidler speaks at the town hall 
Attendees look on during the town hall 
Attendees participate in the brainstorming session 
Provost Vidler randomly selects the participating pie-er 
The chosen pie 
College of Public Service Interim Dean and Professor, Jon Caudill, speaks with UCCS Chief of Police Diana Cooley 
Town hall participants engage in the discussion 
Provost Vidler pie-ning for a towel after getting pied in the face 
Attendees talk with each other as they participate in the session activity 
More brainstorming and ideas from the audience 
Jon DeWitt, Assistant Director of Student Conduct, on stage with Provost Vidler 
Audience members adding their input 
College of Letters, Arts & Sciences Interim Dean Constance Staley talks with other attendees 
Provost Vidler and Police Officer Craig Ginter 
Provost Vidler chatting with attendees 
Audience members share and write down their thoughts 
Audience members watch during the town hall dialogue 
Jevita Rogers, Senior Executive Director of the Office of Financial Aid, Student Employment and Scholarships, speaks during the town hall
Berger Hall was lined with swag from across campus, mini pies for snacking and collaborative energy on Tuesday, March 11, as over 90 faculty, staff and students gathered for the Academic Affairs Town Hall. The event, a key initiative of the Office of the Provost, proved to be a resounding success, fostering collaboration, generating insightful discussion and – surprisingly – ending with a pie in the face for Provost Lynn Vidler!
While the pie-themed giveaways (including an apple pie from the local Boonzaaijer’s Dutch Bakery, a one-on-one lunch with the Provost, and the aforementioned “pie-ing” opportunity) certainly added a layer of fun to the proceedings, the real substance of the hour was a dynamic vision-planning session. Attendees gathered at tables to engage in a series of thought-provoking discussions, tackling crucial questions about UCCS’s present and future. Additionally, despite all of the changes in the federal funding landscape, UCCS is tracking slightly up for new grant proposals submitted compared to this time last year.
“I’m grateful for everyone’s participation in the session,” noted Provost Vidler. “We’ll consider everyone’s feedback as we update our academic vision for the campus. I also hope that everyone took away the importance of incorporating a bit of levity into the deeply purposeful work we do every day. It’s critical that we enjoy what we are doing.”
Participants delved into prompts such as:
- “What brought you to UCCS and why do you stay?”
- “What skills do today’s graduates need to succeed, and are we effectively teaching them?”
- “How should UCCS contribute to the Colorado Springs community?”
- “What are three words that capture your hopes for an ideal, thriving campus?”
- “What’s a silent success that happens on our campus that rarely gets celebrated, but deserves more recognition?”
Within the diverse and informed perspectives represented, several key themes emerged: a shared belief in UCCS’s immense potential, a deep commitment to the university’s success and a strong sense of community driving us forward.
The conversations and responses during the Town Hall revealed a remarkable degree of alignment within the UCCS community and a strong sense of shared purpose among attendees. Participants consistently highlighted the deep care that faculty, staff and students have for UCCS, its success and, especially, its students. While acknowledging diverse perspectives, the overwhelming sentiment was one of connection, mutual support and a collective investment in the university’s potential. Many felt inspired by the collaborative spirit, though concerns were raised about exactly or and if things will be substantially different from the past.
The event clearly demonstrated that, while we come from different backgrounds and areas of expertise, we are united by a common desire to make UCCS the best it can be. The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable, and the collaborative spirit was truly inspiring.
The Academic Affairs Town Hall was more than just a meeting; it was a celebration of the UCCS community and a powerful demonstration of our collective commitment to shaping a bright future.
We invite questions and responses to our virtual comment box! The Academic Affairs team will read every question and Provost Vidler will periodically respond throughout the year.
Watch an edited recording of the event. Portions of the recording have been sped up to reduce runtime, but no content has been fully removed.