Experiencing strong growth from its freshman class, Western New England University has played an integral role in preparing students for the future of work. President Robert Johnson caught up with Invest: to discuss the recent launch of the Center for Advanced Manufacturing in partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a fintech incubator supported by the MassTech Collaborative. “In the next year or two, we’re launching a Bachelor of Science degree in welding, aiming to bolster the workforce, especially in Western Massachusetts,” he said.
What are some of Western New England University’s major achievements over the past year?
The past year has been remarkable for Western New England University. We’ve seen a significant increase in our student population, with our freshman class growing by 22% and overall enrollment up by over 5%. This growth, especially in a challenging environment for higher education, underscores the strong value proposition we offer. Our students’ success post-graduation speaks volumes about our impact. For instance, 98% of our graduates secure employment or admission to further studies, and our engineering majors start with salaries over $77,000. Moreover, a study highlighted our exceptional role in social mobility, ranking us No. 10 among selective institutions for propelling students from the lowest to the highest income quintiles.
How is Western New England University preparing students for the future of work?
Our educational philosophy, focusing on agile mind education, prepares students for the evolving workforce by emphasizing the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn. This approach is vital in a world where graduates will navigate numerous jobs across various industries, many of which are yet to emerge. We’re committed to fostering personal growth and a sense of global citizenship among our students, encouraging them to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Western New England University stands unique in its commitment to preparing students for the future of work through a blend of traditional values, innovative teaching, and personal growth. We’re proud of our unique value proposition, our impactful programs, and our role in shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators.
How is Western New England University supporting workforce development?
We’ve launched a Center for Advanced Manufacturing in partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a fintech incubator supported by the MassTech Collaborative. These efforts, alongside our distinction as one of the few institutions in the Commonwealth with quantum computing capabilities, solidify our position as a cornerstone for workforce development in Western Massachusetts and beyond. One notable outcome is the evolution into advanced welding. In the next year or two, we’re launching a Bachelor of Science degree in welding, aiming to bolster the workforce, especially in Western Massachusetts. This initiative is critical for industries like shipping and aviation, where there’s a dire need for skilled workers.
We are in a unique position to assist, particularly in fields like fintech, which heavily leverages AI to enhance productivity for startups, entrepreneurs, and established businesses. Utilizing AI, for example, significantly improves efficiency, allowing for more work with fewer resources. This efficiency gain is just a glimpse of how AI can revolutionize productivity across various industries, predicting a substantial increase in productivity rates in the coming years. This is how we’re contributing to a transformative impact on the workforce.
Describe how the university encourages strong relationships between students and faculty, and promotes innovation and entrepreneurship.
The cultivation of mentor-mentee relationships and a culture of innovation occurs in multiple ways. Primarily, this interaction begins in the classroom where faculty engage with students daily. Beyond the classroom setting, we establish collaborative groups consisting of faculty, staff, and students. These groups serve as a platform for exchanging ideas, enhancing the academic and living environment on campus. A significant component of this approach is our Career Services Center, which plays a pivotal role. Every student is introduced to Clifton Strengths to identify their strengths, aiding them in discovering their purpose and crafting their 30-second elevator pitch. We also encourage students to develop a professional LinkedIn profile that accurately represents them. A blend of in-class and extracurricular activities exemplifies our commitment to providing real-time, practical education that extends beyond the academic curriculum, fostering a collaborative and innovative spirit among our students.
In what ways does the university help students become global citizens?
Every summer, we offer several programs that enable students to study abroad. Last year, for example, we had a group of about 20 to 25 students travel to Europe, visiting three to five cities as part of our summer program. Additionally, our basketball team participated in tournaments in Italy, which was a separate opportunity from the study abroad group. We’ve also facilitated student exchanges to Costa Rica in South America. Moreover, we have an ongoing exchange program with an institution in France, through which a number of French students come to our campus each year for a semester. Beyond student programs, our faculty members are actively engaged in various collaborative activities with colleges and universities worldwide.
What is your outlook for Western New England University and the higher education industry in the near-term?
For Western New England University, I am optimistic about our future despite the challenges we face. We are excited about launching new programs in the next year or two, which will benefit not only our incoming students but also contribute to the broader labor market and workforce throughout Massachusetts.
The value of a college degree is currently under public scrutiny, fueled by debates among politicians and the public on whether higher education serves as a public good. I firmly believe it is, citing the higher earnings potential for individuals with advanced degrees as evidence of its value. However, this discourse has somewhat politicized higher education, which presents a challenge. Another immediate hurdle is the issues surrounding the Department of Education and the FAFSA process changes, which have significantly reduced the number of applications filed. This particularly affects students in need of federal financial aid, many of whom are first-generation college students. It complicates the enrollment process, posing a challenge as we approach the fall.
Lastly, demographic trends present a long-term challenge. With a decreasing number of college-age individuals, often referred to as a “demographic cliff,” we face a shift in the potential student population. This requires institutions to adapt and adjust to a changing market, ensuring a sustainable business model for the future.
What excites you about the current generation of students at Western New England University?
I’m incredibly excited about this generation of young people who come to our campus and to college campuses everywhere. Despite the turmoil in the world, there’s a prevailing belief in loss, but I see it differently. At Western New England University, we embrace a foundational philosophy centered on mutual respect, civility, and a commitment to serving humanity to leave the world better than we found it. When I look into the eyes of our students, I am inspired by the potential for the future. Despite the apparent chaos, I am confident in their ability to transform the world. I believe that 50 years from now, history will recognize this generation as the second greatest generation, following those who emerged from World War II. This current generation is poised to solve many of the world’s problems, transforming it into a better place for everyone.
