I returned late Saturday from 3 days of intensive workshops for deans of Arts and Sciences. We were focusing on developing critical relationships with supporters and alumni, and on managing our college budgets during difficult times.
I learned that deans everywhere are facing the same struggles: trying to maintain high quality programs when budgets are being cut and enrollments are increasing, finding ways to keep supporters engaged when for many of them, their personal finances are in disarray, figuring out creative ways to truly say "thank you" to those who help us by giving their time, talents, and financial support.
The biggest take-away from the event is that here at Southern Miss, things are actually going pretty well. Our budget cuts seem miniscule in comparison to those facing some of my fellow deans. Our alumni and friends continue to visit us, provide gifts to us, and refer potential new students to our programs. Our faculty is stressed--overworked to be sure--but is remaining positive and hopeful in the face of multiple challenges.