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The President’s Statement of Philosophy
Education is power, hope, and faith in a better tomorrow. Regardless of economic and social background, every person deserves an opportunity to pursue higher education. Furthermore, it is my opinion that in the absence of spiritual growth, intellectual stimulation is meaningless. Providing an effective learning environment that will enhance spirituality and citizenship, while strengthening linkages to the African American community remains a crucial goal of all historic African American colleges. A distinctive educational program characterizes opportunities for Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed students to compete internationally as President they learn the values of globalization, negotiation, and cultural synergistic problem solving.
Learning should be fun, empowering, and life changing. To learn is to unearth new meaning, to make a difference, to find one’s voice, to develop new ideas, to engage in self-discovery, and to re-examine prior beliefs. Institutions of higher learning that are truly student centered will offer choices and challenges as well as the ability to listen and to be heard. Unique experiences and opportunities within such a learning community will enable students to realize their dreams. Colleges that are esteem builders facilitate greater consensus and team building among the entire learning community. Team building is essential for the development of a shared mission that can be owned and articulated with excitement!
Through academic excellence, innovative programming, and effective marketing, national and global visibility can be attained leading to increased enrollment and outstanding scholarship. While education builds citizenship, students prepare for this important role through cultural and community service. Therefore, learning cannot be separated from the community or society at large. A liberal arts education will continue to foster a deeper exploration of human knowledge in diverse subjects that will facilitate inquiry into meaning while building a solid foundation in lifelong learning.
Traditional African American United Methodist Colleges are entrusted with building a future for the youth in our nation. In essence, they offer a map and compass to direct the African American community, impacting the nation at-large. Historic African American colleges transmit history and preserve legacies of truth and knowledge. They pave the way for generations to journey through history armed with faith, the capacity for hard work, and a quest to learn. For many, African American colleges continue to provide the greatest gift: a supportive community for the pursuit of learning. Education becomes power, a liberating force that offers justice, equity, and hope for the African American community for generations to come. |
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