In front of a capacity crowd at the Casella Theater, Castleton University President Karen M. Scolforo officially opened the spring semester at her first Convocation on Thursday, January 18.
President Scolforo used her address to reflect upon her first six weeks, to showcase all that she has come to learn from the community, and to begin laying the groundwork for what can be expected from her presidency.
Dr. Scolforo touted the liberal arts education, delivered in such a personal manner at Castleton, citing recent statistics from the world economic forum that show employers are looking for the skills that are embedded throughout the Castleton University curriculum. In addition, Scolforo added that according to our most recent graduate survey, Castleton University graduates are thriving in the workplace and in advanced graduate studies.
Scolforo detailed a collaborative approach to partnerships, exploring new opportunities for program development, new modes of delivery, and expanding upon the established 400 community partnerships for internships, service learning, and research.
"The cool thing is, there are a lot of similarities between my predecessor and me," said Scolforo when discussing what might change now that she's president. "Approaching leadership from a collaborative stance, making it personal, that was important to Dave (Wolk) and that's important to me. So, how can we make those connections, get to know each other better, and how do we tap into all of the talent that is the Castleton University community to continue to make this world a better place? To link arms and make our state, our region, our country, and our world a better place?"
Scolforo also announced some of her newest communication initiatives, including campus suggestion boxes, cocoa chats, weekly newsletters and a quarterly digital magazine, all centered around creating a transparent and collaborative Castleton experience for all.
“The reality is, we are a team, and we're going to change the world together," Scolforo said. "I want to make sure that the lines of communication are always open.”
Scolforo implored students to be involved in one of the 28 varsity sports, more than 50 clubs, or community service opportunities available to students.
"You have this one moment, you guys are in it, you have today to make the most of, today," Scolforo implored. "You'll see me on campus, you'll see me in the dining hall, feel free to come to my table and let's chat. Let's link arms, and let's change the world together."