Written by Maureen Brakke
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Chelle Batchelor, dean of the Library and Academic Innovation, and Judy Sylva, associate provost of Academic Effectiveness and Accreditation Liaison Officer for Western Oregon University, were selected to participate in the Western Academic Leadership Academy.
The leadership academy is a year-long professional development program for academic leaders aspiring to become chief academic officers in the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education region’s postsecondary sector. The academy, sponsored by the Western Academic Leadership Forum and the Western Alliance of Community College Academic Leaders, aims to nurture the talents of the next generation of Western chief academic officers by developing the knowledge and skills of academic leaders poised to advance to that level.
The academy’s faculty members share their expertise on the unique roles and responsibilities a chief academic officer assumes at a two or four-year institution and systems. They focus specifically on developing practical skills within academic affairs, fiscal affairs, student affairs, and external relationships, with a special sensitivity to the culture and environment of the West’s higher education community.
“I’m excited about the Western Academic Leadership Forum because it’s all about tackling the big challenges in higher ed by working together,” said Judy Sylva. “That’s how I’ve always approached leadership – building strong teams, making decisions based on what we care about, and making sure everyone has a seat at the table.” She adds that this forum will be a great opportunity to connect with other leaders and make a difference at Western Oregon University and in the region.
The program includes a summer seminar, followed by opportunities for cohort members to connect with faculty mentors and colleagues at national meetings or virtually throughout the year for personalized career consultations. Additionally, there will be an intensive three-day, in-person seminar at WICHE’s headquarters in Boulder, CO.
Chelle Batchelor adds, “I am thrilled and honored to have been selected for the Western Academic Leadership Academy. This is a fantastic opportunity to deepen my understanding of academic leadership and learn from experienced colleagues. I am interested in gaining new perspectives and skills that will empower me to better serve our students and the WOU community.”
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About Western Oregon University
Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.
