Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _1.1 Undergraduate and graduate curricula innovation
Respondent ________Shirley Wagner_________________ Date _______January 31, 2012
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative? Programs initiate
curriculum initiatives with support from the Office of Academic Affairs. In summer 2010, the VPAA had a
group of chairs work on identifying additional Interdisciplinary concentrations that might be developed
across programs. As a result of this, in AY 2011, a new concentration for Pre-Law students was developed
under the Interdisciplinary Studies major. The Biology and the Psychological Sciences programs
collaborated on the creation of two new concentrations – The Biology concentration in Neuroscience and
Behavior and the Cognitive Science concentration in the Psychological Sciences. Biology also created a
new Health Sciences concentration. The Art faculty created additional concentrations in the Art Minor.
The Middle School curriculum was revised with new courses to meet the changing needs of licensure.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes? It is too soon to
tell whether students will select the new options available to them but the number of students selecting
each concentration will be monitored to see whether they are being utilized. For the Middle School
students, all students entering in fall 2011 would be under the new curriculum.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
New faculty positions for fall 2011 were developed in Psychological Sciences for fall 2011 and for Biology
for fall 2011 and 2012 based on these curriculum changes so that these programs can be effective.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:
Initiative Title:
Respondent:
Date:
1.1
Undertake undergraduate and graduate curriculum innovations
Cathy Canney
October 7, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

New courses introduced in several graduate programs to update curriculum and better serve the student.

Med in Special Education: Moderate Disabilities updated to meet the needs of current students and expectations in
the field.

Health Care Management Certificate created with interdisciplinary academic department representation and
practitioners in the field.

Behavior Analyst Certificate created to address a need to have more certified behavior analysts in school districts.
Program approved by National Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

Civic Engagement Certificate created with a unique connection to Americorps allowing those in service to engage in
graduate level study during service years.

Two new tracks added to the CAGS in IDIS in Reading Specialist and Applied Communication to address the demand
for graduate work in these areas beyond the masters.

Health Communication track developed within the Applied Communication Program in anticipation of partnership
with medical university in China.

Educational Technology Certificate updated to better address current issues in the field.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Program changes were implemented in fall 2010.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
New programs are being marketed and assessed.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _Review viability of existing majors, minors as part of a comprehensive academic plan—1.2
Respondent ____Robin Bowen________________ Date ____Sept. ‘11___________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the 2010-11 academic year, a group of department chairs created a document that outlines
objective measures to be used to evaluate the viability of a program. These measures will be provided
to each Chair annually to track the outcomes of his/her department.
An academic plan will be developed during the 2011-12 academic year. This plan will build upon the
work done by department chairs in the summer of 2011, identifying academic issues facing the
university.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
We feel we are making progress given that department chairs developed and approved measures to be
implemented. We are also making progress on establishing an academic plan.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Tracking these measures over time will allow the department and the institution to evaluate program
effectiveness on a number of measures including graduation rates, retention, program resources (financial,
space, faculty, etc.), service to the general education program, faculty productivity, etc.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:
Initiative Title:
Respondent:
Date:
1.3
Ensure quality of graduate programs and teaching
Cathy Canney
October 7, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 The Office of Graduate and Continuing Education and Extended Campus Programs continue to provide the names
of faculty to chairs for the purpose of conducting classroom evaluations.

The updated process for conducting student evaluations continues with evaluations being sent in a timely manner.
Online courses have student evaluations conducted electronically.

Meeting of all department chairs and graduate program chairs with academic affairs staff continue to prove a good
vehicle to discuss items of mutual interest.

Teaching material resources continue to be provided annually to graduate programs.

Funds continue to be made available to graduate programs chairs for supervision travel and conferences that
directly benefit the graduate programs.

Secondary accreditations and associated program reviews continue. Many graduate programs conduct graduate
program reviews in conjunction with undergraduate program reviews.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
In Fall 2010 and Spring 2011, 24 classroom observations were conducted.
A well attended meeting of department chairs, graduate program chairs, and undergraduate program
managers was held on March 30, 2011 with another scheduled for October 12, 2011.
In FY 11, $12, 393.94was spent on teaching materials specifically for graduate programs. Not all resources
made available to academic departments were expended.
In FY11, $10,570.73 was spent through the GCE budget on supervision travel and conference attendance for
graduate programs. Many faculty use their own professional development funds or department funds for
conference travel.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Evaluation of faculty teaching, requesting student evaluations, meeting with department chairs and allocating
resources are all ongoing and consistent. All provide avenues for better understanding what is happening in our
graduate programs and often provide information that allows us to develop appropriate changes. There are some
classroom observations that departments have been unable to complete, so we need to continue to remind
departments of this essential activity.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___Continue to improve program review and assessment 1.4
Respondent _____Shirley Wagner_______________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
 What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 Program Reviews:
1. An ACC proposal for the next five year program review cycle was submitted to the ACC in September in
collaboration with the department chairs – last year a subgroup of chairs and I had worked on revising the
proposal. This was approved.
2. The Geophysical Sciences site review which is the final review needed to complete the last cycle is being
scheduled for the end of the spring semester.
3. The Human Services program will have their site review for their NEOSHE accreditation review on May 9
and 10. Their self-study and site review serves as their program review which will be the first of the
program reviews in the new review cycle. I assisted with the self-study and the organization of the site
visit.
4. Nursing will submit their five year program review to their accrediting body in June. I will review this
before it is submitted.
 Assessment:
1. I meet weekly with the Director of Assessment. In the fall, after the half-time director went on active
duty, Chris Cratsley was appointed to assist with the assessment responsibilities and Ann Hogan
continued with half-time duties to assessment. Together with Stephen Wall-Smith, we planned the
January Assessment day and worked on a number of assessment activities to keep things moving until
Chris could become full-time director of Assessment in January. Since January, Chris and I have met
weekly and he has met with most of the programs as well as the Liberal Arts and Sciences program to
further the objectives of university-wide assessment.
2. Chris, I, and a number of other faculty have attended state and regional conferences on assessment. We
also have attended meetings on the proposed DHE mandated assessment for the state university system.
3. The university has supported the Psychological Science program which is piloting the use of the ETS
subject test for Psychology as part of their assessment of program effectiveness.
 How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
These actions effectively move the program review process which has been key to the assessment of our
programs forward for a third cycle. The assessment process was slowed by the amount of time that could be
devoted to it in the fall but has been greatly enhanced by the addition of Dr. Cratsley as the full-time director in
the spring. There are concerns about proposed DHE assessment plans for the state universities but the
committee including Dr. Fiorentino recommended measures that will help to preserve some local decisionmaking about appropriate assessment measures.
Fitchburg State
University
Strategic Plan Progress
Report
Planning Initiative Title Expand study abroad opportunities and int'l partnerships—#_ 1.5
Respondent
Ge-Yao Liu
Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
•
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
We have added one more study abroad provider, EF to our current provider's list. Moreover,
we have signed partnership agreements with Rhein-Waal University in Kleve, Germany,
Guangxi Vocational and Technical Institute of Industry in Nanning, China, and Guangdong
AIB Polytechnic College in Guangzhou, China. To prepare to receive visiting scholars as well
as exchange students from these partner institutions, we have applied for the J-1 redesignation, an authorization to host J-1 scholars and students.
•
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The partnerships will no doubt provide a variety of study abroad opportunities, not only for
our students, but our faculty as well. In addition, the partnerships will help lower the cost for
the study abroad programs, which will make study abroad more realistic for those students
who have funding issues. The J-1 re-designation is a must in hosting international visitors
and exchange students.
•
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will implement the partnership programs to play a part in fulfilling the institutional mission
preparing our students to be all-rounded world citizens.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __1.6 Expand Language Offerings
Respondent ___Shirley Wagner______________________
Date ___January 31, 2012
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative? The number of sections of
language offered and the number of students taking languages have both expanded. In Fall 2011, we
hired an additional full-time faculty member in languages with the ability to teach Arabic, French and
German. We also have an adjunct to teach Chinese

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Since 2009-10, the total number of students enrolled in language courses increased from 441 to 679 in
2011-12. In French, we have increased the number of sections for beginners from t in 2009/10 to 4 in
2011/12 with 86 students now taking these courses as opposed to 26 previously. The beginning Italian
sections have increased from 3 to 5 in the same time period. Spanish continues to hold strong with both
Intermediate I and II offered each semester.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The evidence clearly shows that students and their advisors are more interested in languages than the
university previously understood. We will continue to offer more sections to make it possible for students
to take two full years of language instruction.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _1.7 Explore service learning as a graduation requirement
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The proposed Academic Plan states:
“Explore service learning as a graduation requirement by holding discussions with faculty across
campus and submit a recommendation no later than May 2013.”
This task is to be overseen by the Director of the Crocker Center who will be assisted by the VPAA and
chairs.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Not applicable as no actions have yet been taken.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
N/A
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:
Initiative Title:
Respondent:
Date:
1.8
Ensure quality of distance offerings
Cathy Canney
October 7, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

Process for developing an online course requires a formal request by individual faculty member to develop.
Permission to develop requires approval from appropriate academic department chair, Coordinator of Distance
Education and Dean.

Faculty training conducted in various formats included face-to-face workshops, online tutorials, as well as one-onone sessions.

New online courses as well as current online courses being offered by faculty new to online teaching are reviewed
prior to being offered by appropriate academic department chair, Coordinator of Distance Education and Dean.

Online course offerings are reviewed to ensure basic components are incorporated into the design including
mechanisms for meaningful interaction and assessment.

Online version of the student evaluation form was implemented to gather student feedback.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Providing online course development guidelines and accompanying faculty training has been effective in giving faculty the
resources to assist in building online courses. The guidelines and training also helps to ensure that all courses have at least
some basic elements that provide an appropriate platform for student learning.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Regular feedback from faculty and students assists in making appropriate modifications and enhancements. In some cases,
additional technologies and support to enhance the online experience have been implemented.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _ Expand career services and internships for students and alumni—1.9
Respondent _______Stan Bucholc____________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?




Programming has been focused in three areas: presentations/workshops via clubs and organizations, campus wide
new programs and alumni/graduate student assistance.
Presentations have been made at the following club meetings: biol,bsad,econ,csc,geo phys, itec, math, comm., engl
and pols.
Programs include: Careen monologs, etiquette dinner, resumes on the run, international career forum and young
alumni series.
The career center has seen an increase in alumni interest and requests with 123 alumni seen this year and 39
graduate student.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.
 Requests for workshops and presentations by clubs, organizations, departments and individual faculty have
increased.
 Attendance at offerings as above has increased along with subsequent follow up visits to the Career center.
 Increased use of on line resources as “Internship.com” and College central career search.
How will you use the information acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?


Use the feedback and input from session participants to customize session content to meet needs.
Institute regular schedule of offerings throughout the academic year.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #
1.10 & 5.b4
Initiative Title Utilize alumni mentors and resources
Engage alumni and community experts
Respondent
C. Hendry
Date 11/18/11
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
o We have engaged alumni and to participate in each of the major activities on campus
inclusive of:
 Each of the three commencement ceremonies during the year
 Alumni Open Houses’ (3) and President’s Accepted Students reception
 Homecoming and Family Weekend
o We have engaged alumni and community experts to participate in the “Sterilite Scholars
Program.” These ten scholarship recipients receive financial aid and the cohort takes part in
additional professional development opportunities including:
 Alumni and community speakers panels
 Alumni workshops on practical applications for the graduate including alumni
business owners hosting the group at their respective facilities
 Alumni networking opportunities
o We have engaged alumni and community experts to participate in speakers panels at the
academic department level (Industrial Technologies: National Homebuilders Association
program; Moot Court: Judging and mentoring opportunities; Model United Nations:
mentoring) and as advisory board members for the centers for excellence (Regional Economic
Development Institute -REDI; the Crocker Center for Civic Engagement and the Center for
Professional Studies; Sterilite Scholars program).
o Alumni and community experts also host internship opportunities on a regional basis. Our
goal is to grow these opportunities both in number and outside of the North Central
Massachusetts area.
o We are also in the process of creating the inaugural alumni mentoring program in conjunction
with the admissions office aimed at providing greater input for prospective students and their
parents.
o Community experts have been engaged for private support and leadership through the
Fitchburg State University Foundation, Inc. – the primary fundraising arm for the University.
Expertise includes:
 Financial leadership inclusive of the audit, investment direction and endowment
management



Development leadership toward engaging and educating the community on the
need for private philanthropic support to public higher education
Development leadership in identifying individual, family, and corporate and
foundation support opportunities
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o Alumni participation and interest in the University is growing and alumni involvement in
mission critical areas (admissions mentoring, internship opportunities and professional
development opportunities) have been identified for further growth potential. We
ultimately need to quantify this growth more completely and not focus solely on
percentage of participation (alumni giving and event participation).
o Community involvement and education is increasing to the point that we are able to
engage non-alumni experts with opportunities on campus outside of purely fundraising
opportunities. This is probably most noted in the participation of community leaders in
the creation and implementation of the Regional Economic Development Institute –REDI.
This institute is primarily made up of business and civic leaders with a goal of providing
objective and nonpartisan based research and analyses for advice and presentation in
projects, studies, reports, working papers, white papers, memoranda, and assessments.
o Community involvement has also lead to a feeder system of experts that benefits the
Fitchburg State University Foundation, Inc. and leads to University trustee appointments.
This pipeline of talent already engaged with the University is exactly what the Governor is
looking for when appointing new trustees.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o Ideally, the success of the current alumni and community engagement programs will lead
to:
 Increased and diversified participation in events and activities
 Greater engagement with the University ultimately leading to increased private
philanthropic support
 Greater awareness of alumni and community activities with current students
building the University brand and beginning the engagement in the life of the
institution.
o Additionally, results will include alumni engagement more typical to private institutions
where alumni :
 Stay involved in the life of their alma mater immediately upon graduation
 Provide increased private financial support
 Provide stability of involvement in activities across campus
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative— Balance academic and student life—1.11 and 6.b1 ________________________
Respondent _______Robin Bowen and Stan Bucholc__________________ Date _11/14/11_______________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Some students were overly involved in student life activities, to the detriment of their academic
studies. To address this issue, GPA requirements were instituted for participation in Student Life
clubs and organizations.
2. When the strategic plan was written, there were concerns that students worked too many hours. This
goal was intended to encourage students to either cut back on work hours and/or to work on
campus.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. Per the Dean of Student and Academic Life, this strategy is working.
2. Given the state of the economy, we do not feel justified asking students to curtail work hours nor
are there enough on-campus jobs to meet all student work needs.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We will continue to impose GPA requirements for participation in Student Life clubs and
organizations.
2. We propose the university discontinue this component of the plan at this time.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _1.12 Determine the future of the Leadership Academy Honors Program
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The University’s Honors Program, the Leadership Academy, is still in existence. During the 2011-12
academic year, the director of the Leadership Academy will engage faculty involved in the Program in a
discussion regarding whether leadership should remain the focus of the Honors Program. Changes, if
warranted, will be submitted to the All College committee in Fall of 2012.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Given that a decision has not yet been reached, an evaluation regarding effectiveness is premature.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
N/A at this time.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _2.1 Hire faculty, librarians and support staff to meet programmatic needs
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Five additional faculty lines have been approved for the 2013 AY, and one additional librarian position
was approved.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
It is too early to assess the effectiveness as the searches for these positions is currently underway.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
To be determined.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _2.2 Determine class size and faculty student ratios to be consistent with values, mission and
vision.
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Department chairs developed and approved a statement indicating that a class size determination was
inappropriate given the variability of programs on campus. The university’s faculty/student ratios are
below that of our sister institutions and are felt to be consistent with institutional values, the mission
and vision.
The Academic Plan, under development, states that “by December of 2012, a faculty/librarian hiring
plan based on student enrollments will be developed.”

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The perceived effectiveness of the actions varies depending on who is asked to evaluate the outcomes.
While some felt the department chairs’ statement logical and the only feasible outcome, others
desired specific class size numbers and faculty/student ratios that would be determined and enforced
institution wide. As such, a hiring plan was felt to be a more pragmatic approach to the issue.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
To be determined.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 2.3 Increase opportunities and allocation of resources for professional development
Respondent _Jay Bry___________________________________ Date _11/22/11______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
To date allocation of funding for professional development has happen at both departmental level and the
vice president level along with funds per the collective bargaining agreements. For fiscal year FY 12 a
$135,000 is available for Professional Development for faculty per the collective bargaining agreement.
This is managed through the Academic Affairs Division. For the AFSCME Union there is $5,985
available to support their professional development activities, which is done in collaboration with Human
Resources and the union leadership. This would be above any professional development offered through
either departments or by the university.
Currently most departmental travel & professional development money within Academic Affairs is held in
a pooled account. Starting with the FY13 budgeting process these funds are going to be distributed to the
academic departments and included in their operating budget. This will provide departments with more
oversight of allocation of resources at the department level. It will also allow departments to reallocate
funds, as appropriate, within their department to support professional development at that level.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
As part of the budgeting process will be reviewing the current amounts allocated to support professional
development/travel and if adjustments should be made. The university has been committed to expanding
available resources even during these tough economic times. This past fiscal year we were able to increase
it by $66,573.
The collaboration with HR and the AFSCME union has resulted in a very successful professional
development day that has allowed staff members to gain or improve their various skills which helps them in
the day to day operations of their job.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
As part of the annual budgeting process will continue to review the effectiveness and the allocation of
resources for professional development in an effort to continue to expand opportunities and resources to
support professional development.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: This response reflects both #2.3 and #6c.1
2. Achieve academic excellence (pursuit of knowledge, professional competency, and scholarship) Increase
opportunities and allocation of resources for professional development
6. Build and maintain a high quality university/ c. Staff training and development:
Respondent: Jessica Murdoch
Date: 11/18/2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The university actively complies with the professional development criteria cited in the collective
bargaining agreements and the employment policy for excluded executive and professional employees.
Where appropriate, and if needed, institutional funds are available to support professional development
activities/events. These efforts for staff development are complemented in the following ways:
o The office of Human Resources creates surveys for staff and administrators to complete regarding
development opportunities they wish to participate in.
o The university has created an assessment program for all clerical support roles.
o Discipline experts are contracted to facilitate on sight development sessions; sessions that were
offered in the past year were: Dealing with Difficult Personalities at Work, all employees; Dealing
with Troubled Employees, for supervisors; “Take Charge of Safety” General Health and Safety
Training; CPR, First Aid Training Course; Domestic Violence and Awareness; IT Training in
Outlook, Excel and Word, Payroll Presentations both group and individual, AFSCME Annual
Training, collaboration with Central Links, presentations: Customer Service; Conflict of Interest;
Collaborated with FAVE co-chairs to train AFSCME Unit I and II employees to meet goals for
100% campus participation.
o The Department of Human Resources offers specialized and campus wide development
opportunities to establish procedural university guidelines seek efficiencies and streamline
processes.
o The Information Technology Department offers on-site Microsoft Office Suite training, Banner
training, and computer security training and collaborates with Human Resources.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The office of Human Resource documents the training activities, and feedback from each program. The
feedback was helpful in determining programs that assisted our employees in their work. The survey
provided the university with specific training programs that the staff and administrators truly desired to
participate in. The rating forms assisted us in bringing back experts that related and engaged well with our
staff and administrators. Other endeavors, many of which are self-directed, lend themselves to personal
professional enhancements which are then applied to the staff’s endeavors/work and take on a variety of
forms that enhance and/or increase competencies. Additionally, annual evaluations of staff and
administrators assist the office in desired programs of training, these are accomplished in accordance with
the respective collective bargaining agreements and the excluded executive and professional employees’
policy, are additional tools used to document professional development and its influence. We continue to
work with other offices to determine specific needs of offices, by doing so this will continue to support the
emerging on boarding program we are working to implement. The assessment program has allowed the
university to determine core competencies of new employees.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Evaluations, surveys, and other miscellaneous documents that are completed, in accordance with respective
collective bargaining agreements, and self-guided professional experiences combine to document
involvement and to provide the basis for additional and/or complementary professional development
experiences that aim to improve skills, service, and efficiencies in the faculty and staff members’ area(s) of
responsibility.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____Promote on-going professional development through financial and material support to
improve skills, service, and efficiency, 2.3, 6.c1
Respondent __Michael Fiorentino/Sheila Sykes/Jessica Murdoch__________ Date ___12/03/10___________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The university actively complies with the professional development criteria cited in the collective
bargaining agreements and the employment policy for excluded executive and professional employees of
its faculty and staff. Where appropriate, and if needed, institutional funds are available to support
professional development activities/events. The university expends approximately $225,000 annually on
such matters. These efforts for faculty and staff development are complemented in the following ways:
o Discipline experts are contracted to facilitate on sight development sessions;
o The Center for Teaching and Learning has an annual schedule of offerings which offer special
appeal to faculty and librarians;
o The Department of Human Resources offers specialized and campus wide development
opportunities. This department will also soon be launching a self-directed Microsoft Office Suite
Academy Program and sessions on “Delivering Quality Customer Service.”
o The Information Technology Department offers on-site Microsoft Office Suite training, Banner ERP
training, and computer security training.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
For the most part, faculty and staff document their development activities via miscellaneous paperwork
which indicates the particulars of the activity. Some of the university’s activities use surveys for a general
awareness of the degree of satisfaction with the development activity. Other endeavors, many of which
are self-directed, lend themselves to personal professional enhancements which are then applied to the
faculty or staff’s endeavors/work and take on a variety of forms that enhance and/or increase
competencies. Additionally, annual evaluations of faculty and staff, accomplished in accordance with the
respective collective bargaining agreements and the excluded executive and professional employees’
policy, are additional tools used to document professional development and its influence.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Evaluations, surveys, and other miscellaneous documents that are completed, in accordance with
respective collective bargaining agreements, and self-guided professional experiences combine to
document involvement and to provide the basis for additional and/or complementary professional
development experiences that aim to improve skills, service, and efficiencies in the faculty and staff
members’ area(s) of responsibility.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _2.4 Increase support for faculty research, creative activities, and public service.
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Each year, the university provides $200 per faculty member for travel. Also, per the contract, a variable
sum ($682 for the 2012 AY) is given to faculty who apply for the funds to support their research, creative
activities and involvement in professional associations.
During the fall 2011 semester, the VPAA provided $25,000 of special incentive funds to faculty to
support travel to conferences, scholarly and creative activities, assessment and global initiatives.
Finally, the proposed Academic Plan has the following goal: Increase financial support for
faculty/librarian scholarship, creative activities, public service, editorial work and leadership in
professional associations by 5 percent during both the 2013 and 2014 AY.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The $200 provided by the university is appreciated but is inadequate to meet faculty needs. The
additional funds provided per the contract are used for a variety of purposes by faculty. Even when
combined with the additional $200 provided by the university, the sum is inadequate to support travel to
an out-of-state conference, let alone fund other scholarly activities. The $25,000 provided by the
VPAA this
year did fund travel proposals put forward, but only funded half of the submitted
scholarly/creative
proposals. Additional funds are needed.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We recognize that current funding is inadequate and will continue to seek ways to supplement current
funding levels. We will also investigate the possibility of offering several course releases each year
recognizing time is often times as much of an impediment as money in reaching scholarly/creative goals.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Commit resources for editorial work and leadership roles in professional assoc., 2.5
Respondent __Michael Fiorentino, Sheila Sykes_______________ Date ___12/01/10______________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The resources that are committed for such work include:
o allocating funds for membership in professional organizations;
o hiring part-time faculty or applying contractual language for the purpose of back filling a full-time
faculty member’s workload when said member is pursuing alternative/complementary
work/assignment; and
o providing opportunities for flexible scheduling.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o Funds for professional memberships: There is a list of professional organizations that our faculty
and staff belong to.
o Funds for hiring part-time faculty: The University commits the necessary funds to cover course
sections/faculty workload areas where commitments to editorial work and leadership roles in
professional associations are occurring.
o Flexible scheduling: Where appropriate, arrangements are made between the staff member and
the respective supervisor for the appropriate amount of time needed to commit to a designated
leadership role in a professional association.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Faculty and staff involved in such commitments may show the time commitment to these endeavors via
their workload sheets, attendance documents, personnel file documentation, evaluation forms, etc.,
thereby indicating not only the time devoted to such matters, but also the how the effort fits within their
job responsibilities. Informal methods of reporting are also beneficial to support the respective faculty or
staff member’s work/scholarship area.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report-2011-Library
Initiative Title: Establish the levels and appropriateness of print and digital holdings in the library necessary to
support academic programs —2.6
Respondent: Robert Foley

Date: Oct. 1, 2011
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
A. Databases were analyzed and added to the library’s services: 2011

FASB Accounting Standards Codification (Jan. 2011-) This was purchased in conjunction with
Professor
DesRoches and in lieu of the printed version of the standards.

JSTOR IV-IX, May 2011

BIOSIS /Biological Abstracts (1955-84 Retrospective holdings were added in May)
Usage(May-Je 2011) 1,9777 sessions 9,650 searches

Five database aggregator services were investigated for possible purchase. The goal was to ascertain if
the cost of individual journal subscriptions could be used to purchase databases. They were: Criminal
Justice Periodical Abstracts, America: History & Life, Historical Abstracts, Education Research
Complete, Art & Architecture Complete. An aggregator is a database service that provides indexing and
abstracts research capabilities and access to some full-text e-journals. The librarians analyzed these 5
services by comparing the library’s individual periodical subscriptions to the journals that are provided
in these services to see if the services carried the journals. If electronic access was provided, if the cost
of the DSU individual periodicals in each service equaled or exceeded the database subscription cost
and the format was compatible (pdf) the periodicals would be cancelled for 2012 and the funds used to
purchase these databases. It was decided to purchase:
o Criminal Justice Periodical Abstracts (CJPA), July 2011o Education Research Complete July, 2011-

2012 funding has been requested for the library to assume the subscriptions to LexisNexis and an online
encyclopedia which were previously supplied free of charge from the now defunct Central
Massachusetts Regional Library System.
Funding
was approved

The professional staff is also investigating the purchase of electronic/online nursing books from
Rittenhouse Publishing and the purchase of electronic/online business books from the EBSCOhost ebrary book collection. Trial subscriptions will be held during the fall of 2011.
Usage to begin Jan. 2012

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

Biosis- We will continue to purchase retrospective access to back years, hence the 1955-84 purchase in
May-Je 2011. This will provide retrospective researching of the Biology literature for faculty and
students.

JSTOR-We have purchased the archival rights to JSOTR IV-IX and the current subscriptions will
begin in January 2012. This will provide retrospective researching of the Arts and Sciences literature
for faculty and students.
It was decided to purchase:
o Criminal Justice Periodical Abstracts (CJPA), July 2011o Education Research Complete July, 2011-

FASB Accounting Standards Codification This is being used by the professor in the classroom and the
subscription will continue. See the following comments from R. DesRoches. - Does not provide
statistics
Usage of FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC)
The ASC represents a database of the combined pronouncements of the FASB, SEC, and other
predecessor standards issuing bodies comprising what is referred to as generally accepted
accounting principles. “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification® is an advanced application
that allows users to access the authoritative content, perform research, and submit feedback.” New
pronouncements are now referred to as Accounting Standards Updates and become part of the ASC.
Graduate level:
At this point the greatest use is to conduct research. In MGMT9030 (Accounting Theory), each
student is required to make a presentation incorporating research using the ASC database. Weekly
homework assignments utilize the ASC as well. Further, knowledge of how to use the application
will enable those aspiring to take the CPA exam to perform better as the ASC is used in certain
areas of the exam.
I expect to use it in MGMT9032 (Advanced Financial Accounting Issues) this fall teaching students
how to use it for research and for CPA exam purposes. They will be required to refer to it for their
group presentations and papers.
Undergraduate level:
With so much time needed to learn the practical side of accounting there is very little opportunity
for research. However, all accounting students should have some knowledge of the ASC
application, again, due to its utilization in the CPA exam. So beginning in the spring 2012, in
BSAD4110 (International Accounting, offered only in the spring) I intend to spend one week
showing students how to use it and either assigning a research paper involving its use or doing some
questions from prior CPA exams that required candidates to use it.
Richard J. DesRoches

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?


Usage statistics for 2011 would indicate acceptance of BIOSIS, JSTOR,
Individual library journal subscriptions for Criminal Justice and Education students are now easier to
use and the students and faculty will have access to an additional 100 journals in Criminal Justice and
Education students and faculty will have access to an additional 1,150 journals.
B. Planning for digitizing various documents in the University Archives
Budget requests were made to purchase appropriate computer hardware (computer and scanner) and software
to digitize, organize and provide finding aids for documents in the University Archives.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o

Funding to purchase Finding aid software (Archon) has been requested; funding for digitizing
software (Content DM) has been requested; funding for hardware (PC and scanner) is being
requested. Funding was approved for the 2012 budget and purchases are being made in FY 2012
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o Library staff will meet with faculty to establish a set of policies and procedures to post published
faculty journal articles to the Library web site.
o Various governance archival documents (ACC Proposals (1979-2008), Graduate Council Proposals,
etc.) will be posted to the Library Web site.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report-2011-Library
Initiative Title: Support the library in their efforts to align themselves with national trends—2.7
Respondent: Robert Foley
Date: Oct. 1, 2011
The library staff has begun its 2011-2014 Strategic Plan and the staff is presently working on the following goals
and objectives:
1. What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
2. How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
3. How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Goal 1: The library staff will integrate librarians, resources and services into courses throughout the curriculum
using the embedded librarian model. (Embedded Librarian)
Objective: 1 A Embedded Librarian activity
Activity: A number of activities took place in 2011. While they were listed in the 2010 Library report for
the FSU Strategic Plan they actually took place during the spring 2011 semester. They involved Librarian
Linda LeBlanc working with Prof Lynne Kellner of Behavioral Sciences and Librarian Kathryn Wells working
with Prof. Jewell of the History faculty in two history courses (HIST 2225 and HIST 1500) and Writing I and
II professors Joanna Jackson and Nicole Roussos. The Librarians assisted in designing assignments, they
were linked to the professor’s Blackboard site and they were the main contacts for the students in need
of library assistance.
Objective: 1D.01 Information Literacy Integration: Create a plan to addresses information literacy
integration and assessment at the academic program level and ensures students in all academic
disciplines graduate with the information literacy competencies defined by the academic core learning
competencies
Activity: A library plan has been developed and is being followed for the library classes.
Goal 2: A collaborative learning environment is the set of physical and virtual spaces and tools which enable
learners to collaborate on projects to meet learning goals. The library will transform its physical spaces and
provide tools which foster collaborative learning. (A Collaborative Learning Environment)
Objective: 2A. Layout of Collections: Renovate the layout and flow of library collections to improve access
and user self-sufficiency.
Activity: Budgetary funds were requested (approved with the 2012 budget) for shelving for the Oversize
Collection which was created n 2010 and the Young Adult Collection which was created in 2002.
Objective: 2A. Provide greater access to the cataloged materials in the Special Collections. Link books or
volumes in the Special Collections to the electronic versions that are available in the various e-book
collections provided by the Library of Congress
Activity: A library policy/guidelines for linking to various electronic collections has been adopted.
Activity: The project began in the summer of 2011 and the staff is using the Hathi Trust and the Internet
Archive. Approximately 100-150 items have been linked. This allows access to the historical items in the
Library’s Special Collections via the web site/internet without the need to going to the library to use the
print versions.
Goal 3: The library staff will continuously explore means to enhance existing and provide new services for
library users in order to meet their evolving needs and expectations.
Objective 3E Input the CIC bibliographic information into Voyager and OCLC
Activity: Completed Sp 2011. All items including books, videos and music CDs in the CIC are now available
nationwide. Circulation statistics were 16 items for 2011
Objective: 3E Apply filtering devices/options to the catalog search results pages
By comparing usage statistics from the zero returns reporting function from Voyager (the library
management system), we show the catalog searching enhancements have made a significant impact in
assisting the students and faculty in finding items via the catalog. In other words, the lower the failure
rate the more success in searching through the catalog.
Activity: Completed Sp 2011 Usage statistics illustrate the following:
Searches
Returns with 0 hits Failure rate
April 2010
4,074
1,235
30%
July 2010
2,659
747
28%
January 2011 14,967
1,053
7%
July 2011
11,494
730
6%
Objective: 3E Investigate applicability of WorldCat to the book catalog entries/records. Access to
WorldCat will provide students and faculty the ability to search this OCLC worldwide catalog for materials
from the item catalog entry in Voyager. There will be simpler linking/searching by subject, author, call
number, etc.
Activity: Access to WorldCat was made available in April 2011 and is now available from the bibliographic
record page for each book title.
Usage statistics show
2010: 2,452 searches
2011: 2,087 searches.
Goal 4: Student enhancement and faculty teaching skills will be improved by the utilization of technologies
provided by the library. (Utilizing Current and Emerging Technologies)
Objective: 4B. Establish a digital archival repository
See Policy Initiative 2.6
Objective: 4C Establish a digital repository for faculty publications.
See Policy Initiative 2.6
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____2.8 Commit institutional support (resources and staff) for CTL______________
Respondent ____Robin Bowen___________________________ Date ___Jan. 9, 2012______________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The CTL has been established for several years. The director of the CTL receives a 4-course release each
year (typically 2 courses a semester) and works with a committee to further help distribute the work
load. They have a dedicated location in the Library, nicely furnished, and are establishing a library of
resources. The CTL has its own budget, which is under the control of the CTL director, which provides for
some travel, enhancing resources, some faculty research stipends, and hosting events.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The actions were extremely effective. The CTL provides a robust series of activities for faculty each year
and during the summer.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will continue to support the CTL at or about the current funding level. This goal has been met.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _____ Opportunities for student research—2.9
Respondent ______Stan Bucholc______________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?


The advancement of student participation in research has been enhanced by the availability of the Dean’s Fund for
travel and research. This is for students needing various supplies for their independent research or for travel for
conference presentations.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.


There has been steady request/use by students, sponsored by faculty, to fund student research and fund travel to
conferences and seminars in which students are presenting or participating on organization committees.
The response to the Undergraduate Research Conference held in concert with the University Honors Convocation
Day has been tremendous during the 2 years it has been held. It is not a regular part of the college calendar and
operation.
How will you use the information acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?


Continue regular funding, through the Office of Student and Academic Life, to support student research and
travel.
The Undergraduate Research Conference held on campus has been included in the college calendar as a regular
event. The planning process begins during the fall term for implementation in April.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Title:_Upgrade technological infrastructure to provide secure…—3.1
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. We upgraded fiber network cabling connecting 8 buildings on campus.
2. The SAN and DMZ networking gear were upgraded from end-point class routers to an enterprise-class
system.
3. Implemented a flow-based network monitoring system.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. These 8 buildings are now all running off of redundant 50micron fiber connections that are more easily
repaired. This has allowed us to increase speed and reliability to the network for these buildings.
2. We’d seen dropped packets across this network which resulted in unwanted latency and retransmissions to
pass data effectively. It worked, but was slower than it should have been, which resulted in a slowdown of
our Banner ERP system during peak usage times.
3. We can now monitor network traffic to see if there are bottlenecks in data flowing through the system as
well as isolate problems much more quickly.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. A solid, reliable network connection is critical to being able to provide computer and phone services to any
location. Upgrading this cable system has allowed us to increase the use of VOIP phone systems, reducing
MAC times and allowing teachers and students to teach and learn.
2. Upgrading this had an immediate effect on the speed of our ERP system, allowing the system to be more
easily used by students and reducing reporting times for staff.
3. This has had a significant impact on developing and proving our network design as well as reducing
troubleshooting times because the network can nearly instantly be proven or disproven to be a cause of an
issue. This has helped with capacity planning and has reduced downtimes or latencies in the system.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative Title: Improve services through the use of technologies #_3.2
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Implemented approximately 140 VMware VDI virtual workstations on campus.
2. Implemented an active-directory self-service website. Change their passwords, and unlock their accounts
without assistance.
3. Replaced Banner Advancement with Raiser’s Edge to manage the foundation.
4. Implemented an electronic contact directory for the University faculty and staff.
5. Installed wireless VOIP handsets in some areas.
6. Implemented unified messaging for voicemail.
7. Added two OneCard stations on campus – Anthony and Holmes.
8. Added a new tabber and printer to the printshop to help automate mailing services.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. Very. Student profiles issues have completely gone away and reliability and uptime has been greatly
enhanced.
2. All of our users can now make these changes 24x7 by themselves with any web browser. While some may
still choose to call the helpdesk, this provides another avenue for service that some prefer.
3. Banner advancement is no longer used and the foundation completely runs off of Raiser’s Edge now. This
provides the department with far superior reporting and data collection abilities.
4. This has been very well received. Contact information is now instantly available as accounts are created,
rather than when the phonebook was printed. Location information is now accurate and faculty & staff can
upload a photograph that accompanies any email messages.
5. This allows our staff to be mobile and utilize the data wireless system to transport calls. Areas in which
cell service is spotty or non-existent can now support wireless calls.
6. All voicemails can be accessed by phone or can be accessed via email as a .wav file attachment.
7. These systems are how many students store currency for a variety of purchases on and off campus – from
buying books to copying materials to doing laundry, they need access to these machines to transfer funds.
8. The addition of these machines allow us to save by using bulk mailing rates. The annual savings to the
University by using these mailing techniques is more than $65,000 per year.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We’re going to begin working with individual departments and eventually replace nearly all labs and public
systems with this. We’re also starting a pilot with adjunct professors to provide them an updated working
environment separate from their personal laptops. We believe this will be the future of computing and the
start of IT providing a reliable and consistent level of service on personal devices.
2. Providing easy self-service 24x7 is very effective – the highest network activity levels we have occur at
11pm at night and this is another way that our customers can get service.
3. This upgrade should result in faster response times and increased abilities to generate new donations. This
new revenue can be used to support University plans.
4. Contact information is now readily available and the entire process is completely automatic. By including
pictures with emails, students and faculty/staff have the ability to interact easier during initial contacts.
5. Some jobs really require this. Areas like GCE often have after-hours open houses and they can now give
prospective students a phone number that will reach them at the event. Other areas like the rec center
would often let calls go to voicemail as they move around the building and they can now take these calls
directly.
6. Users not near their phone can now recognize when a voicemail message arrives and act upon it remotely.
Voicemails can easily be forwarded to other people/multiple people for action and information distribution
with a few clicks of the mouse.
7. The Holmes addition is especially important for three main reasons: a. It was requested by students during
our annual survey, b. It is in a location that handles the most transactions for the system, c. It is the only
machine available 24x7 for all students. We will continue to expand the presence of these machines as
warranted.
8. We’ll continue to work with departments to identify areas in which automation can reduce the costs of
operations. Many times this automation results in quicker services as well.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___3.3, 5.b5, 6.d5, 6.d6: Implement green technology/initiatives, reduce energy consumption
and natural resources____________________________________________
Respondent ________Mary Beth McKenzie__________________________ Date _____11/16/2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the period since the previous update, a final draft of the Climate Action Plan was completed. This plan
is currently under review and will be presented to the Sustainability Team for comment, which once complete
will then be presented to the University leadership for comment and/or approval. This tool will help provide
the University with a roadmap for efforts both long and short term for reducing its carbon footprint.
Additionally, now that funding has been designated for the Conlon Roof project, this presents the necessary
opportunity to begin planning for additional solar PV arrays. Between the Conlon Roof and the recently
replaced McKay roof, there is potential for an installation of a large enough size to attract project developers at
a reasonable price to provide clean energy to campus buildings at or below the current market pricing.
Outreach has been made to identify a consultant with expertise in this type of solicitation and a proposal for
this project is currently under review. Finally, investigations have begun to incorporate green energy into
future energy procurement contracts – which will provide an interim mechanism to reduce the University
carbon footprint while technology and infrastructure solutions are being developed and implemented over the
longer term and as budgets allow. This interim strategy will allow us to meet the commitments made by the
University when it became a signatory on the American College and University President’s Climate
Commitment.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
While not producing direct, tangible outcomes at this time, these activities set the stage for future delivery of
outcomes with regard to both energy reduction and green technology implementation goals set by the
University.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The focus of these actions have primarily been planning activities, the end result will be expansion of clean
energy technology and energy use reductions on campus, while also managing and reducing overall operating
costs to the University and insuring compliance with self-imposed commitments and external regulations.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #_3.4 Initiative Title: Upgrade office and classroom space
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Completed the mediations of all applicable classrooms and upgraded others.
Thin-client systems
IP-based phones.
Multi-function printer/copier replacements on campus.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. Eight rooms were newly mediated and eight were renovated with new equipment for FY2011. Now classes
can be scheduled in these room and there is a baseline of technology available for use.
2. We’ve installed thin-client systems in over 80 podiums on campus. This brings a level of functionality and
reliability we could not attain with a traditional workstation.
3. We’ve installed IP-based phones in approximately 90% of our voice locations. This allows for users to use
CallerID and more intuitive functions when using the phone. This also greatly reduces the time to replace a
system or move a phone so that uptime is maximized. In some locations, like the Klondike Avenue
building, the phones will still continue to work even when power is lost, which happens frequently there.
4. Users now have the ability to get printouts on any device using “follow-me” technology, scanning and
finishing is available on all of them and the number of printers and fax machines on campus have been
reduced.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. Now that we’ve built the foundation, the Technology Advisory Committee is investigating what type of
“smart” classroom systems to standardize upon. We’ve also committed to renovating and upgrading
classrooms each year on a rotating basis so that the technology remains usable.
2. As we gain experience with this new system, we can install it in more “technology-unique” locations to
improve service levels in those classrooms as well. We’ve also begun installing these in shared office
areas that adjuncts frequent.
3. We continue to look at ways to improve voice services on campus – including the rollout of Wifi-based
phones for mobile communications that are transparent to the caller.
4. We’ve installed print management software so that we can identify unusual printing patterns to determine
the best solutions to fit customer’s needs. We’ll continue to monitor this and also plan on adding this
ability to the student printing side as well.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __,– Upgrade office and classroom space and academic spaces—3.4
Respondent _Jay Bry______________________________________ Date _October 7, 2011__________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the 2010 summer, CPM continued the work to complete the annual classroom upgrades – including two at
McKay C in association with the relocation of the McKay Café, and also two classrooms in Percival Hall.
Additionally, the work on Edgerly 3rd Floor was completed resulting in new department offices and faculty offices
for Computer Science and Math. The work at 155 North Street building was completed in December, and the
Exercise and Sports Science department moved into the 1st floor as their new department and faculty offices.
During the summer of 2011, several additional academic or department spaces were also upgraded. These
upgrades included the gut-renovation of the Miller 3rd floor providing upgraded faculty offices for the department
of Economics, History and Political Science. Work was also completed on four new soundproofed Winger practice
rooms in the Conlon Fine Arts Buildings, along with an adjacent classroom. The Conlon IA lobby renovation is
nearing completion and when finished will provide an area for congregation and interaction among building users
that also includes a high-tech media wall display system to showcase student and faculty projects.
Planning also continues for future efforts, including phase 2 of the Miller Hall renovation. Program studies for
both Humanities and Communications Media are being developed/updated to evaluate current and future needs for
learning environment space. Also, an exploratory analysis of Percival Hall is underway.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Each of the projects completed provide enhanced environments for working and teaching.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Providing safe, well-designed, state of the art physical environments, adapted specifically for the audience being
served, insures that the basic needs of faculty, staff and students are met, allowing them focus to remain on the
institutional goal of teaching and learning.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #_3.5 Initiative Title: Ensure quality of the technology in distance learning…
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Stop self-hosting of Elluminate.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. We’ve off-shored our Elluminate servers and support directly to Blackboard. This allows the company that
created the product to service and support the system and enhances response time as they can dynamically
allocate more bandwidth when needed.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We’ll continue to look at these opportunities as our maintenance contracts come up. When it makes sense
financially and strategically, we’ll continue to try to provide the best support and service for our users.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___Upgrade safety technologies, training and procedures—3.6
Respondent ________Leah Fernandes, Mary Beth McKenzie ______________ Date _____10/7/2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
A new Environmental Health & Safety Officer was hired, and assumed the position in June. Since that time,
several of the targeted training programs have been implemented, most significantly the Bloodborne Pathogens
Training and Immunization program for Capital Planning and Maintenance employees. Other regularly scheduled
training and planning activities have been completed, such as the updated Spill Prevention, Control and
Containment plan and associated training. The new EHS officer has made inspections around campus and
recommended various steps to continue improving the safety and compliance across all campus functions and
departments.
CPM completed the scheduled exterior improvements at Thompson, Edgerly, Weston and Conlon IA, which have
advanced the transition to card operated door lock hardware. In addition, a test installation of wireless locks was
installed in the Fine Arts building – which if successful will provide an easily adjusted system without the need for
the expensive hardware infrastructure necessary for on-line locks. The last installment of card-access locks was
completed in the Townhouse Apartments, so that entry to student residences is now exclusively on the card-access
system. Upgrades to the emergency notification/blue light system are nearing completion through the
installation/upgrade to several call boxes around the campus, including Weston Auditorium, Thompson/Edgerly,
Conlon Plaza, and Cedar House. Surveillance cameras were added at the Congress Street lot, the Athletic
Complex and are soon to be installed in conjunction with the new lighting the Civic Center upper lot.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Having an EHS officer rejoin the University staff has helped to insure that the campus is meeting compliance
requirements, while at the same time has provided a new opportunity to assess operations and identify areas of
improvement that reduce risks for the many campus employees, students and visitors.
The increase in emergency communications and monitoring equipment targeted some of the areas of most concern
and vulnerability for the campus, increasing the sense of security.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Expert knowledge from the EHS officer is helping the campus to identify and expedite needed improvements to
processes and procedures, insuring routine safe practice in the learning and working environment of our campus.
As the transition to the card access system is reaching critical mass across the campus, a full review of user access
privileges is being undertaken which will establish standards of access across user groups, with the goal of
facilitating increased access where possible, while also setting access limitations to locations where confidential
materials or sensitive equipment is stored or used.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #_3.7 Initiative Title: Provide professional development….
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Information technology offered over 20 courses last year free-of-charge and available to all faculty, staff
and students on how to use different software and hardware packages.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. We have good attendance at these classes and add or remove them based upon signups. They are one hour
focused courses on specific subject matters.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. Based upon feedback from the courses and also from the annual survey, we’ll continue to offer these
training classes and update them annually based on new technology. As we update systems and software,
we have to provide opportunities for our users to learn about new features and how to use them effectively.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #_3.8 Initiative Title: Develop ways to utilize technology to build community…
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
 What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Installed and configured Blackboard IM for all students.
 How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. We tested the system in FY2011. We begin a full rollout and marketing campaign in October.
 How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We’ll watch the adoption rate and continue to work with GCE to see how the tool is utilized.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____Implement a plan to engage the campus in achieving a culture of diversity
4.1 and 6.e6_____________
Respondent __Robin Bowen____________________________________ Date ___11/11/11____________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. A plan was created (see attached).
2. In Fall 2011, five special projects grants of up to $500 each were offered to faculty and librarians to
allow them to purchase materials (e.g. books, CDs, DVDs, etc.) to enhance diversity and/or a global
understanding in their programs.
3. Additional foreign language courses were offered this past year (see initiative 1.6).
4. We enhanced the tutoring portion of the Summer Bridge Program and also revised the Freshman
Seminar component based on student needs.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. Creating a plan was key to beginning to address these strategic objectives. Representatives from
Academic Affairs, Student Development and Human Resources participated in the creation of the
plan.
2. Three faculty members applied for and were awarded funds to purchase materials to enhance
diversity/global understanding.
3. See initiative 1.6 for outcomes.
4. We felt our efforts were successful and that the implemented changes better met student needs.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. Again, developing the plan was the first step in the process and is key to making improvements in
this area.
2. Plans are to continue to provide this funding and to encourage more faculty to apply for these funds.
3. While we feel we have met the intent of this goal, we will continue to provide foreign language
offerings to meet student interest and needs in the larger community.
4. We will continue to implement these changes, as well as evaluate for any further needed changes to
the program.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #4.2, 4.3 and 6.a3 Initiative Title________________________________________
Respondent ___Pamela McCafferty______________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
We have hired a consulting firm in order to assist us with the development of a strategic plan for the
recruitment of diverse students.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
No determination can be made until the consultant report is received and reviewed by the university.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The report will be used to guide us in the development of a culture of diversity.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 4.3 Create a culture of diversity (to meet regional needs and enhance university
community) Increase student, faculty, and staff diversity
Respondent: Jessica Murdoch
Date: 11/18/2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The university actively complies with all federal and state laws in regards to protected statuses as defined
by law. The university works to increase diversity within the staff and administrative ranks; we have taken
a proactive measure to train all employees that participate in the search and hiring practice. Diversity is a
key point that is addressed, committee members act as hiring agents for the university, when applicable and
legal they are asked to consider diverse candidates for hire. The office of Human Resources continues to
advertise in diverse venues to draw minority candidates to apply for vacant positions. We have
strengthened our affirmative action statement on our position announcements to invite candidates that are
of the minority to apply to the university. Additionally, the university has the Equity and Diversity
committee comprised of faculty, staff and administrators. This committee meets to strategize on how best
to continue awareness and increase diversity knowledge across the campus to all constituents. The
committee has provided monetary support to cultural events to help further the vision and mission. We
have worked with faculty to introduce and encourage members of the faculty to interject into the classroom
topics concerning diversity. As Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, Affirmative Action, Title IX
coordinator, diversity is an integral part of the position. The state university diversity officers have
committed themselves to meet throughout the academic year as another measure to facilitate and educate
the importance of diversity within the climate. The legal counsel of Rubin and Rudman actively participate
in these meetings to discuss new case law and areas where the universities may strengthen their policies
and procedures concerning affirmative action and diversity efforts.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The commitment to train all members of the search and hiring process has facilitated a better understanding
of the legal parameters of hiring while providing a forum to emphasize diversity initiatives to the campus
community. We have received positive feedback from committees that this preparation has allowed a more
efficient flow and an ease with the process of hiring. This feedback assists us with updating and reviewing
our processes to better streamline our current processes. The Equity and Diversity committee has shown
vigor in collaborating with areas of the university, and have plans to increase that participation every year.
The committee is hopeful that they can organize more programs, educational presentations and foster more
discussions through brown bag lunches, speakers and collaboration with the cultural programs already
being offered. The university statewide meeting has allowed for better understanding and breadth to the
areas of affirmative action and diversity and challenges each officer to strengthen our goals surrounding
diversity on each of our campuses.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
It is the desire to purchase a training module specific to “Diversity” for all members of the university. We
will require employees to participate in this program at hire and offer trainings to current employees. The
university continues to analyze other venues to utilize for advertisement of our positions. By doing so, we
hope to strengthen our pool of skilled underrepresented candidates. We are looking at list serves, mailings
and electronic communications.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _4.3 Increase student, faculty and staff diversity
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

“Instituting strategies to increase faculty diversity” is a goal in the Academic Plan currently being drafted.
The plan also includes the creation of a recruitment plan to increase student diversity.
We plan to complete a Cultural Climate survey (as part of the Academic Plan). Results will indicate actions
needing to take place to make the campus culture a more welcoming one.


How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Given that the Academic Plan is still being developed, and actions yet to be implemented, it is too
soon to measure outcomes.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
N/A at this time.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _Increasing retention of at risk students
Respondent Stan Bucholc
4.4
Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 Beginning Fall 2011 Fitchburg State and Worcester State University are working cooperatively on faculty
initiatives for student retention as part of their Visions state grant.
 Past CSI survey data, SAT data and Placement testing data have been reviewed to identify at risk students
that are not currently associated with another university program.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 The data identified a cohort of students in selected academic departments and portions were selected for a
pilot program.
 A recent history review of students entering the past 2 years is being conducted to verify the data sets used
for student identification.
 Initial interventions have been identified which will be refined and/or expanded based on contact with the
students.
 A pilot of faculty advisors were identified in the selected departments, were trained in interpreting CSI and
other data and are identified as retention advisors in their respective departments.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 The pilot will identify processes and practices that need to be expanded or developed to implement
institution wide.
 The goal is to use the collected data, which is accomplished just prior to entering, to identify students and
have them assigned to retention advisors departmentally and participate in various intervention programs.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #: 4.5 Initiative Title: Offer programming indicative of a diverse campus
Respondent: Hank Parkinson Date: October 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 We are re-evaluation Multicultural Affairs and its services.
 Currently we are engaged in a needs assessment project
 Offer diverse events such as Latino acts, step groups, speakers, etc.
 We offer services and programs for our LBGTQ population

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 As stated above we are taking a close look at this. We have done some benchmarking, will be
administering a survey this month and holding a focus group

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 The needs assessment will help us identity our diverse population and better serve these students.
Fitchburg State
University
Strategic Plan Progress
Report
Planning Initiative Title Increase student and faculty international exchange —4.6
Respondent Ge-Yao Liu
 What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
We have signed partnership agreements with Rhein-Waal University in Kleve, Germany,
Guangxi Vocational and Technical Institute of Industry in Nanning, China, and Guangdong AIB
Polytechnic College in Guangzhou, China. To prepare to receive visiting scholars as well as
exchange students from these partner institutions, we have applied for the J-1 redesignation, an authorization to host J-1 scholars and students.
•
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The partnerships will no doubt provide a variety of study abroad opportunities, not only for
our students, but our faculty as well. The partnerships will help lower the cost for the study
abroad programs, which will make study abroad more realistic for those students who have
funding issues. The J-1 re-designation is a must in hosting international visitors and
exchange students. The partnerships will create faculty teaching exchanges, faculty-led
short-term programs, and short-term student exchange programs.
We anticipate 5 visiting scholars for Spring semester 2012 and faculty-led short-term
programs will start in summer 2012.
•
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will implement the partnership programs to play a part in fulfilling the institutional mission
preparing our students to be all-rounded world citizens.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative Title diverse populations 2010-2011 _—4.7
Respondent _Mary Chapin Durling
___________ Date _______10/6/2011________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?






Brought film maker Barbara Hammer to campus to speak: meeting diversity issues of gender, sexual
orientation and age. {2010-11}
The Female Closet screening by Barbara Hammer addressed sexual orientation and gender issues
o Outreach to external community through targeted marketing and promotion such as area
colleges with women’s studies programs as well as newspaper articles and standard marketing
plan
o Outreach to internal constituents included the 1-in10 (GLBT student club)
o Film/video students attended the screening and post-discussion
Programs targeted towards our seniors included Judy Collins and James Cotton—major artists in their
70s—who are still vibrant performers
o Outreach to external community through targeted marketing and promotion that includes season
brochures sent to 24,000 area residents
o The director presented the program offerings at a meeting at the senior center
o CenterStage season brochures are sent to all participants in ALFA (Adult Learners/Fitchburg
Area)
Compagnia TPO—a multi-media performance art company from Italy—presented Farfalle.
o This program targeted the city of Fitchburg’s elementary school children. The public schools are
over 60% students of color. Dedicated annual programs for the schools ensure that these diverse
populations are given access to live performances.
o School performances are also an outreach to the area collaboratives that students with moderate
to severe handicaps
Expansion beyond these modest programs is limited due to current economic conditions, institutional
budget constraints and to time constraints that have occurred with the director’s additional institutional
responsibilities as Special Events Coordinator for the President’s Office.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

Barbara Hammer:
o External community members from the Boston area attended the film.
o 1-in-10 members attended and held bake sales prior to the screenings.
o Ms. Hammer met with film/video students and reviewed some student work



Judy Collins & James Cotton:
o Ms. Collins concert was sold-out (800+) with nearly 30% of the audience purchasing senior or
ALFA tickets
o Twenty-seven percent of the audience for James Cotton purchased senior or ALFA tickets
o Additionally, more than 50% of the audience at the James Cotton concert were first time ticket
buyers—another indicator of successful outreach
Compagnia TPO:
o 400 students from the Fitchburg Public Schools attended
o Two of the collaboratives brought 15 students with disabilities
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o
o
o
o
o
Clarity on institutional priorities regarding which diverse populations are to be targeted will be incorporated
into programmatic, artistic decisions
CenterStage will partner with the Crocker Center to reach out to the Cleghorn Neighborhood Youth Center to
encourage participation at evening performances
Consideration will be given to appropriate artists and programming dates that coincide with the 50 th reunion
and Gold Key breakfast
The highly successful and long-term (10 years) relationship with the Fitchburg Public Schools will continue
The outreach to the disabilities collaboratives will continue to develop
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: # 5.a1______ Initiative Title: Conduct an internal service/resource audit______________
Respondent: Terrance Carroll____________________________________________ Date: 10/6/11_________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
A campus wide survey will be administered in the fall of 2012 to collect information on existing and potential
collaborations.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Survey results will be compiled, analyzed and shared with the Executive Committee for further consideration.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The information gathered will be used to provide perspective on the nature and extent of collaborative
relationships and activities and to identify opportunities for additional cooperative ventures.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 5.b.1 Commit institutional support (resources and staff) for the Crocker Center and REDI
Respondent _____Robin Bowen____________________________________ Date __January 9, 2012_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Both the Crocker Center and REDI have been established and have directors (each of which has 4course releases per year / 2 per semester). Each has a dedicated space on campus and support services
to help sustain activities of the respective entities. Both also have annual budgets under the
control of the
respective director.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Actions taken have been very effective. Both Crocker and REDI provide opportunities for faculty and
students on campus and both also serve the larger community.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will assess the programs to assure the programs are meeting their original intent and will also
evaluate funding intermittently to assure adequate funding. Center directors will also be encouraged
to work with the Development Office to secure external funding as well. This goal, as written, has been
met.
Strategic Plan 5.b2 Collaboration Partners: Expanding Partnerships with K-12
Update January 9, 2012
The Fitchburg State University Education Unit, in collaboration with its school partners, designs, implements, and evaluates
field experiences and clinical practice so that initial and advanced teacher candidates, non-licensure candidates, and other
school personnel acquire, develop, and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to help all students
learn. The Education Unit and its school partners share the same mission for excellence in the “professional preparation of
candidates, faculty development, inquiry directed at the improvement of practice, and enhanced student learning” (NCATE,
Standards for Professional Development Schools, 2001, p. 2).
Since the inception of the Strategic Plan in 2009, the Fitchburg State University has taken a number of actions to expand and
deepen our school partnerships, particularly in regards to diverse settings and to deepening our partnerships.
1. We have added more school partners in diverse settings. To date, we have 43 schools; 63% are diverse settings. We
continue to work toward increasing diverse setting opportunities for our educator candidates.
2. Though we continue to seek partnerships with schools that serve diverse student populations, much of our current work
with our partner schools focuses on deepening the partnerships. Through a series of meetings, which included principals,
supervising practitioner/mentors, teacher candidates and education faculty, coupled with NCATE Standards, the criteria
for and characteristics of Effective University/School Partnerships were developed. These criteria ensure a two-way
commitment between the University and the school partners. Specifically, Initial Licensure programs at the graduate and
undergraduate levels have three types of partnerships with regard to field experiences:
a. Campus school-based partnership with the McKay Campus School and Fitchburg Arts Academy Pilot School:
Traditional campus-based partnerships include a strong relationship with our Campus Schools, housed at the McKay
Teacher Education Center alongside university faculty offices. The McKay Campus School and Fitchburg Arts
Academy Pilot School are urban PK-4 and Grades 5-8 public schools on the Fitchburg State University property. The
schools service approximately 650 students: 59.9% (McKay) and 43.4% (FAA) diverse with 50.2% (McKay) and
74% (FAA) free and reduced lunch, 26.2% (McKay) and 22.4% (FAA) First Language not English, 12% (McKay)
and 6.5% (FAA) Limited English Proficiency, 23.5% (McKay) and 19.8% (FAA) students with special needs. Each
semester, these Campus Schools host numerous pre-practicum and practicum students. Faculty from both schools
work in partnership with faculty of the university to design learning experiences that will be beneficial to both the
Campus Schools’ students and teacher candidates. The Dean of Education serves on the McKay School Council and
the Fitchburg Arts Academy Governing Board. Currently the University is the primary partner in bringing the two
schools together as one school. This process of school restructuring will be a part of an Innovation School Grant cosponsored by Fitchburg State University and the Fitchburg Public Schools.
b. School partnerships with schools that have entered into a formal agreement with the unit: The partnership schools
include thirty-eight elementary schools, six middle schools and six high schools specifically selected as high needs
schools with diverse populations.
c. Host school sites: Includes sites with which the unit does not have a formal agreement but where candidates have
been placed due to hardship or geographical issues. Host placements have included placements primarily in the
Greater Fitchburg Area and in the eastern part of the state. Most candidates in advanced programs complete
placements in host schools where they are employed.
3. Nurturing University-School Partnerships is a two-way relationship.
a. Field experiences and clinical practices are designed, delivered, and evaluated with school partners and others. Much
of this work has been the focus of the Standard 3 Committee. This committee is comprised of University faculty, the
Dean of Education, and practitioners in the field. This committee has established practitioner/teacher cadres and
principal groups that meet regularly to examine program efficacy, assessment structures, and best practices for field
experiences. These orbiting groups have been instrumental in the development and revisions of a number of
processes and criteria with our partner schools that deepened our collaborative practices in regard to designing,
delivering, and evaluating field experiences.
b. We now have a Secondary Education Coordinator. One role of this person to establish a critical mass of exemplary
mentor teachers in our partner high schools.
c. Workshops for mentor teachers are held at the beginning of each semester. These workshops provide opportunities for
mentor teachers in our partner schools to further develop their mentoring skills in specific ways, to share best practices with each
other, and to become familiar with the University assessment system for evaluating field experiences.
d. University professors in our Liberal Arts and Sciences Departments are tutoring teachers in our partner schools in regards to the
Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure in order to assist these teachers to become highly qualified.
e. The University has a partnership with Boston Museum of Science that is multi-layered.
1) The Museum has trained our Liberal Arts and Science and Education faculty in the content knowledge and pedagogy
for teaching Engineering, Science, and Technology. They, in turn, develop teaching modules around Engineering
themes and principles for their University classrooms. These professors then teach the science content through the
pedagogical lens of the grade 1-6 teacher. In this way, our elementary teacher candidates participate in 2 or more
science methods courses. The approach is also multidisciplinary—teaching science across the curriculum.
2) The second layer is providing professional development to the teachers who mentor our teacher candidates so that
they can further develop their knowledge and skills in this area and continue to reinforce effective Engineering,
Science, and Technology teaching in our teacher candidates. To this end, on January 27, 2012, the University, in
partnership with the Museum, offered a workshop on “Bridging Engineering, Science and Technology for
Elementary Teachers” in our partner schools. This full day workshop was free of charge for those teachers who serve
as mentors/supervising practitioners to our teacher candidates (Grades K-6) Teachers received curriculum materials
and were reimbursed for any substitutes they use that day.
3) The third layer of this partnership is to provide classroom coaching to the teachers who attend this workshop. This
builds our partner schools’ capacities to develop and maintain environments that support best practices. Processes for
this next phase are in the planning stages.
Future plans include hiring fulltime Placement Coordinator who would be responsible for working with our partner schools
to place educator candidates appropriately, to recruit and screen new mentors, to provide professional development for
mentor teachers, and to ultimately develop four Professional Development Schools (two Pre-K-4, one 5-8, and one 9-12).
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 5b3 Pursue Collaborative Grants
Respondent Chris Hendry / Shirley Wagner
Date November 14, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Applications were made for 33 new grants; 11 were awarded for a total of $654,023. Four were private
foundations, one was federal, one was regional and five were state. Additionally, we had three multi-year
grants which were federally funded and three which were state funded.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
These grants promoted community partnerships involving prevention of violence against women,
elementary and secondary education, cultural events, police partnerships, nursing initiatives, dual
enrollment and a business partnership with McKay School.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The highest priority for the Grant Center over the past few years has been to pursue external funding that
supports the core mission of the university and the strategic plan.
To be institutionally effective, we have diversified the approach both in number and type of funding
opportunities to increase the likelihood of approved grants.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #
1.10 & 5.b4
Initiative Title Utilize alumni mentors and resources
Engage alumni and community experts
Respondent
C. Hendry
Date 11/18/11
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
o We have engaged alumni and to participate in each of the major activities on campus
inclusive of:
 Each of the three commencement ceremonies during the year
 Alumni Open Houses’ (3) and President’s Accepted Students reception
 Homecoming and Family Weekend
o We have engaged alumni and community experts to participate in the “Sterilite Scholars
Program.” These ten scholarship recipients receive financial aid and the cohort takes part in
additional professional development opportunities including:
 Alumni and community speakers panels
 Alumni workshops on practical applications for the graduate including alumni
business owners hosting the group at their respective facilities
 Alumni networking opportunities
o We have engaged alumni and community experts to participate in speakers panels at the
academic department level (Industrial Technologies: National Homebuilders Association
program; Moot Court: Judging and mentoring opportunities; Model United Nations:
mentoring) and as advisory board members for the centers for excellence (Regional Economic
Development Institute -REDI; the Crocker Center for Civic Engagement and the Center for
Professional Studies; Sterilite Scholars program).
o Alumni and community experts also host internship opportunities on a regional basis. Our
goal is to grow these opportunities both in number and outside of the North Central
Massachusetts area.
o We are also in the process of creating the inaugural alumni mentoring program in conjunction
with the admissions office aimed at providing greater input for prospective students and their
parents.
o Community experts have been engaged for private support and leadership through the
Fitchburg State University Foundation, Inc. – the primary fundraising arm for the University.
Expertise includes:
 Financial leadership inclusive of the audit, investment direction and endowment
management



Development leadership toward engaging and educating the community on the
need for private philanthropic support to public higher education
Development leadership in identifying individual, family, and corporate and
foundation support opportunities
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o Alumni participation and interest in the University is growing and alumni involvement in
mission critical areas (admissions mentoring, internship opportunities and professional
development opportunities) have been identified for further growth potential. We
ultimately need to quantify this growth more completely and not focus solely on
percentage of participation (alumni giving and event participation).
o Community involvement and education is increasing to the point that we are able to
engage non-alumni experts with opportunities on campus outside of purely fundraising
opportunities. This is probably most noted in the participation of community leaders in
the creation and implementation of the Regional Economic Development Institute –REDI.
This institute is primarily made up of business and civic leaders with a goal of providing
objective and nonpartisan based research and analyses for advice and presentation in
projects, studies, reports, working papers, white papers, memoranda, and assessments.
o Community involvement has also lead to a feeder system of experts that benefits the
Fitchburg State University Foundation, Inc. and leads to University trustee appointments.
This pipeline of talent already engaged with the University is exactly what the Governor is
looking for when appointing new trustees.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o Ideally, the success of the current alumni and community engagement programs will lead
to:
 Increased and diversified participation in events and activities
 Greater engagement with the University ultimately leading to increased private
philanthropic support
 Greater awareness of alumni and community activities with current students
building the University brand and beginning the engagement in the life of the
institution.
o Additionally, results will include alumni engagement more typical to private institutions
where alumni :
 Stay involved in the life of their alma mater immediately upon graduation
 Provide increased private financial support
 Provide stability of involvement in activities across campus
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___3.3, 5.b5, 6.d5, 6.d6: Implement green technology/initiatives, reduce energy consumption
and natural resources____________________________________________
Respondent ________Mary Beth McKenzie__________________________ Date _____11/16/2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the period since the previous update, a final draft of the Climate Action Plan was completed. This plan
is currently under review and will be presented to the Sustainability Team for comment, which once complete
will then be presented to the University leadership for comment and/or approval. This tool will help provide
the University with a roadmap for efforts both long and short term for reducing its carbon footprint.
Additionally, now that funding has been designated for the Conlon Roof project, this presents the necessary
opportunity to begin planning for additional solar PV arrays. Between the Conlon Roof and the recently
replaced McKay roof, there is potential for an installation of a large enough size to attract project developers at
a reasonable price to provide clean energy to campus buildings at or below the current market pricing.
Outreach has been made to identify a consultant with expertise in this type of solicitation and a proposal for
this project is currently under review. Finally, investigations have begun to incorporate green energy into
future energy procurement contracts – which will provide an interim mechanism to reduce the University
carbon footprint while technology and infrastructure solutions are being developed and implemented over the
longer term and as budgets allow. This interim strategy will allow us to meet the commitments made by the
University when it became a signatory on the American College and University President’s Climate
Commitment.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
While not producing direct, tangible outcomes at this time, these activities set the stage for future delivery of
outcomes with regard to both energy reduction and green technology implementation goals set by the
University.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The focus of these actions have primarily been planning activities, the end result will be expansion of clean
energy technology and energy use reductions on campus, while also managing and reducing overall operating
costs to the University and insuring compliance with self-imposed commitments and external regulations.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Title enhance partnerships with community for arts and cultural events —5.b7
Respondent _Mary Chapin Durling
___________ Date _______10/6/2011________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

Fitchburg State University community {2009-11}
o Reading Lois Lowry project—young adult and children’s author: English and Education
departments
o The Galileo Project: Geo-physical science, theater, and history department
o Compagnia TPO: Communications Media department
o Annual gallery programming and curatorial work: Communications Media and Humanities
department
o Stuffer: Communications Media department (and filmmaker alum)
o Gare St. Lazare Players, Ireland: theater and English department
o Kathryn Lasky—young adult and children’s author: English and Education departments
o Copernicus Project: Geo-physical science, theater, and history department
o Conflict Studies committee member
o Oversight of season brochure: inclusion of all major aspects of university cultural activities

Fitchburg Public Schools {2009-11}
o Lois Lowry—young adult and children’s author
o The Galileo Project
o Compagnia TPO matinees and study guides
o Dan Zanes & Friends concerts
o Kathryn Lasky—young adult and children’s author
o Asphalt Orchestra—flash mob performance

ALFA {Adult Learners/Fitchburg Area}
o Lois Lowry
o The Galileo Project
o Copernicus Project

Center for Italian Culture {community/university partnership committee}
o Jules Aarons photography exhibition of the North End
o Ieri, Oggi, Domani—10 year Celebration
o Remembering Galileo series: scenes from The Life of Galileo (theater piece)
o Remembering Galileo series: Galileo’s Battle for the Heavens (film)
o Remembering Galileo series: Dava Sobel (talk)
o
o
o
o
Primavera Romana—opera talk and dinner
Swords & Sandals film series (3 films)
L’italia Liberata film series (3 films)
A Venetian Culinary Delight

General/external community {Fitchburg}
o Adams Art grant {Massachusetts Cultural Council} –First Thursdays program
o Pathways—public art project
o Cantus performance with the Greater Gardner Community Choir
o First Thursdays facilitation
o Asphalt Orchestra flash mob performance at First Thursday
o Co-chair of the Fitchburg Arts Academy governing board (pilot school within Fitchburg Public
Schools)
o Past president and current grants/development coordinator for the Fitchburg Cultural Alliance
o Member of the Emerging Leader planning committee {arts and culture} for the North Central
Chamber of Commerce

Corporate community {Fitchburg} that provide financial support for CenterStage programming:
o Workers’ Credit Union
o Rollstone Bank & Trust
o Enterprise Bank
o Leominster Credit Union
o Hannaford Supermarkets
o Unitil
o Slattery’s Restaurant
o Fitchburg Federal Credit Union

Corporate community {Fitchburg and area} that provide in-kind support for CenterStage programming:
o Sentinel & Enterprise {newspaper}
o Worcester Magazine {arts weekly}
o Fitchburg Pride/Leominster Champion {newspapers}
o WPKZ {Fitchburg radio}
o WICN {Worcester NPR radio}
o Sheraton—Four Points

Arts community {region}
o President of New England Presenters consortia
o Regional partnership grant to present Asphalt Orchestra. Funded by New England Foundation
for the Arts. Partners include: Keene State College {Keene, NH}, Silvermine Guild Arts Center
{New Canaan, CT}, Bates College {Brunswick, ME}, Portland Ovations {Portland, ME},
Connecticut College {New London, CT}; Flynn Center for the Performing Arts {Burlington,
VT}, Wesleyan University {Middletown, CT}
o Regional partnership grant to present Dan Zanes. Funded by New England Foundation for the
Arts. Partners include: World Music/Crash Arts {Cambridge, MA} and Portland Ovations
{Portland, ME}
o Block booking tour of Gare St. Lazare Players, Ireland. Partners include: Keene State College
{Keene, NH}, Connecticut College, {New London, CT}; MCLA Presents, {North Adams,
MA}; Zeiterion Theatre, {New Bedford, MA}; Arts Emerson, Emerson College, {Boston,
MA}; Flynn Center for the Performing Arts {Burlington, VT}
o Application to MassHumanities for partnership presentation CC@MIT {the Catalyst
Collaborative @ MIT} of “And the Earth Stood Still”—a play about Copernicus by Dava Sobel

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o Enhancement is an immeasurable quality.
o The extensive and wide range of partnerships demonstrate the effectiveness of the director in
forging, developing, maintaining and seeking new partners both with the internal community
and the external community.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o
o
o
o
o
o
Continue existing partnerships
Work to develop Italian programming more within curriculum
Develop partnerships with new adjunct music faculty
Seek support for an arts component in the freshman year experience
Respond to external grant opportunities for artists and projects
Deepen relationship with Fitchburg Arts Academy in regard to participation in arts events
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _____ Continue efforts with neighborhood groups to be a good neighbor—5. b8
Respondent ________Stan Bucholc_____________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Working with the community and application of the good neighbor policy through the following.







Sponsoring the first annual community music festival at Riverfront Park.
Students working through the student volunteer center with various local agencies and projects
Collaborating with the MOC in a grant promoting male health initiatives.
Collaborating with the YWCA regarding the DOJ Domestic Violence grant.
Collaborating with MWCC and Americorps in a grant initiative for job seeking and education.
Working with Fitchburg City Police to identify house party hosts and processing violators through the Student
Conduct system via the Good Neighbor Policy.
Continued education/notification of all students regarding the university Good Neighbor policy.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.






The music festival continues with increased interest and participation by local business, agencies and the general
public along with City Government.
The grants with MOC, DOJ and Americorp have continued and promoted increased use and awareness of male
health issues, domestic violence and volunteer opportunities.
The MOC initiative has increased contacts with Health Services in this area. The University has added an exam room
dedicated to the project.
The DOJ grant has been funded and implemented for the second yesr. Training and information for all incoming
new students is now part of the regular University orientation program.
Staff and student employees within all SAL units, Campus Police and some faculty have been trained in “Bystander
Training”. Further faculty training is planned. A grant funded position for planning and implementing training and
activities has been filled.
Coordination with City Police and Campus Police has been increased to a routine protocol regarding incidents in the
university area. It has led to decreased incidents and consistent student conduct sanctions.
How will you use the information acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?



The University is continuing programming and clinical services regarding the male health initiative as a regular part
of programming and service to students.
DOJ Bystander training remains as an integral part of the University Orientation program, new staff training and
student employee training in the SAL unit. This is being expanded further to the entire faculty.
There is now a regular protocol with City police regarding area incidents and subsequent student conduct action.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __ Continue efforts with neighborhood groups to be a good neighbor—5.b8
Respondent _Jay Bry______________________________________ Date _October 7, 2011__________
Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The first stage of the Highland Avenue work was completed successfully, and with the support of the local
neighbors. This provided the venue to expand the campus for a more pedestrian friendly outdoor space. In
addition the street and parking have been modified to minimize traffic within the campus, while adding to the
overall parking capacity under control of the university. The second phase of the Highland Avenue work is in
planning stages, working with the neighbors and the City to envision a new gateway/intersection at Highland and
Pearl now that this has become an entrance point for the campus.
Continued efforts to support the redevelopment of North and Main Street parcels, and other local off-campus
student housing initiatives are ongoing through discussions and collaboration with the Fitchburg Redevelopment
Authority and private developers. The owner of the former Scratch and Dent building has secured partial
financing and hired a developer with previous experience in the higher ed/student housing market in preparation
for a possible student housing project. Preliminary estimates anticipate an opening in Fall 2012 and would be
approximately a 150 beds.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The advance planning and communication with neighbors and City officials ensured that the transition and
resulting work was completed quickly and successfully, so that the transition was complete for the start of the new
academic year.
The ongoing communication efforts insure that the University has a voice in the efforts to improve the City for
residents, commercial and university constituents, demonstrating goodwill and cooperation continue as a hallmark
of the campus commitment to the enhancement of the city and region.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The university needs to continue to be actively engaged in with the many constituent bodies in the city and region
to insure the many voices are incorporated as new opportunities and initiatives are identified.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___5c.1 Expand Internships
Respondent _____Shirley Wagner________________________________ Date __1/31/2012_____
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative? The option of offering
internships is open to all programs. The university pays liability insurance for the students and for their
supervisors and has formal agreements with agencies when these are required. Travel monies for
supervision of internships is also provided. Several programs – Communications Media, Human Services,
Nursing, and Education require all students to do a full semester internship/practicum experience. The
program currently expanding the internship option for their students is Business Administration.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes? In the past two
years about 45 Business students have taken advantage of the internship opportunity. When the
internship option is available to students, more students choose to do internships.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The VPAA will work with department chairs to encourage more programs to have internships as an
option.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #: 5.c2 Initiative Title: Grow volunteer opportunities
Respondent: Hank Parkinson Date: October 5, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions
below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 I led the Volunteer Center through a strategic planning process last spring. For the first time they
have a vision, mission, and goals for the center.
 This plan has been helping them focus and offer more volunteer opportunities for our students
 We have an Americorp member this year helping with volunteerism.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 Again, assessment has not been our strong suit, but will be a priority this year.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 Data will help us build our program.
 We do know that this community cares and is willing to give back based on their participation, ie.
Care & Share
Section 5.c2 Grow Volunteer Opportunities
The Center has provided numerous opportunities for students through the programs faculty design to
address community needs. Faculty receive support from the Center and a small stipend to design civic
engagement projects. These have ranged from introducing third and fourth grade girls to science and
careers in science, to students working by painting rooms in a local school. Through the Civic Engagement
projects over one hundred students have been involved in community projects and we anticipate this
number will grow. There have been eight faculty-based projects to enlist students in community work. We
have a formed a civic engagement committee that is working to promote engaged scholarship on our
campus. Currently the Center is working with the faculty union to recognize engaged scholarship as a basis
for tenure and promotion. During the spring of 2012 we hope to hold a campus-wide forum on engaged
scholarship and support faculty as they pursue this community based research and the use of student
volunteers.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #___5.c3 _______ Initiative Title_____ Promote Athletic Events____________________
Respondent _Sue Lauder, Keith Brouillard, Michelle Walsh___________ Date _______10/5/2011________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
o
o
o
o
o
o

Created new online athletic apparel store.
Modified “SuperFan” program to open membership to faculty and staff in addition to students to increase game attendance;
added promotional giveaways to promote repeat attendance.
Created new mobile website for cellular phone and internet usage.
Worked on Fitchburg State Athletics iPhone application to be released 2012.
Added LiveStats for four additional teams.
Hosted Youth Soccer Night, Mentor Night, Think Pink games and Take a Kid to the Game events that involved the local
community.
Increased usage of social network sites to promote events.
Conducted 25+ promotional events during 2010-11 with 30+ planned for 2011-12.
Improved webcast system to include personalized web-page to encourage fan interaction via chat and email.
Coordinated food drives and other charitable activities through SuperFan program to increase attendance.
Increased community service involvement by teams to promote community attendance.
Created new department brochure for Admissions use.
Rebranded department with new logo. Created new visual identity standards. Replaced old logo on publications, website,
department apparel and facilities.
Regular communication with local media outlets on department events and special interest stories.
Superfan facebook membership page increased to more than 500.
Webcast traffic increased from 1445 in 2010 to 13,655 in 2011.
Website traffic increased by over 160,000.
Live Stats programs were viewed by 1,170 fans.
Attendance at all home events increased. Student attendance at home events increased.
Including the department website, webcast system, live stats and marketing initiatives, Fitchburg State Athletics reached a
total of 531,396 unique visitors during 2010-11.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
o
o
Continue to develop new avenues to reach potential fans using available technology, i.e. release of the iPhone application,
increase the amount of interaction available on the website, expand videos on the website, add Live Stats for additional
sports.
Develop new promotional events. Increase interaction with local high school teams as permitted by NCAA regulations.
5.d 1 Facilitate Community Dialogues
The Crocker Center has offered two different formats for community dialogues; Community Salons and
Community Panels and Discussions. The Community Salons focus on specific community-wide issues and
how the University can help the citizens of the area address these needs. The Salon is open to all community
members with invitations targeting key community and University members. The format is a facilitated
dialogue that centers on open-ended questions. Participants join tables of four to eight individuals to answer
the questions. The responses are recorded and become a central part of the planning for the Crocker Center.
Listed below are the most recent community salons, the topic of focus, and the outcomes from the meeting.
General discussion that asked what kind of community are we and how can the University serve as a
resource to the community. The attendance for this event was over sixty municipal leaders, human
service agencies, private citizens, university faculty, staff and administrators. There was a general
agreement that the community and University could work more closely to bring more offerings to the
community and the public. Among the outcomes of this salon were the development of marketing
and public relations plans for the Salvation Army, a closer relationship with Community Builders,
which is a program of the United Way, involvement of community members on the Crocker Center
advisory board.
Meeting with municipal leaders on how we could work together to build a better community. The
event hosted forty people who held various offices in the surrounding city and town governments,
and Fitchburg State faculty, staff, and administrators. At this Salon it was decided to focus on specific
topics for future salons and begin to offer community members Community Discussions on issues
they faced in their everyday life. One of the significant outcomes of this salon was the establishment
of a partnership with Mount Wachusett Community College that brought fifteen Americorps
volunteers to the North Central area to work with not-for-profit organizations to address issues of
unemployment and job readiness.
Community Salon for health professionals where we facilitated a dialogue identifying the central
issues citizens in the area faced in terms of their healthcare. We discovered the significant influx of
non-documented aliens who have minimal access to health care. Fitchburg had a major influx of
immigrants from Uruguay and immigrants from other countries of Latin America.
Through partnership with the Fitchburg Police Department we held a community salon for public
safety professionals. This included members of local police and fire departments and ambulance
services. The outcome of this meeting was a weeklong summer institute for public safety
professionals. Sixteen professionals attended a summit focused on a variety of leadership topics. At
this point we are planning to offer the same experience in the summer of 2012.
Another salon was held with municipal leaders this semester that reviewed the progress since the
first meeting and to identify new areas of collaboration.
Listed below are the community discussions that have been offered:
Generational Difference in the Use of Communication Technology – this was a panel presentation by four
professionals discussing the differences among millennials, generation x and y, and baby boomers in their
use of communication at work. The panel provided education and a discussion with community
participants in ways to improve cross-generational communication
Using Social Media to Land a Job or Change Jobs – a panel offered community members tips on how to use
social media in completing a job search. This discussion was in response to the high rates of unemployment
in the area and the need for local citizens to access resources to improve their job seeking skills and
network.
Communicating Across Genders – This was a panel discussion with audience participation to talk about
ways to improve communication and relationships between men, women, and transgendered people at
home and in the workplace.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _ Increase professional training and development for the community—5.d2
Respondent ___Cathy Canney (CC)___________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

Relocation of the Center for Professional Studies to Main Street in Fitchburg has facilitated connection and service
to the community. Several organizations regularly use facility to hold meetings, programs, and seminars.

Center for Professional Development Advisory Board formed with representation from a cross section of the
community (i.e. business, education, non-profit, health...) to assist in developing a strategic plan for servicing the
professional training and development needs of the community.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:
#5.d3, Expand literacy projects (ESL opportunities)
Respondent:
Cathy Canney
Date:
October 7, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Fitchburg State collaborates with Mount Wachusett Community College to offer English for Speakers of
Other Languages (ESOL) by providing facilities on the University’s campus. The Massachusetts Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education sponsors Regional Adult Education Centers, therefore, this adult education
center located at the McKay Campus of Fitchburg State is the center available to the citizens in the city of
Fitchburg and surrounding area.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Area residents that inquire with Fitchburg State for ESOL opportunities are directed to this adult
education center.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will continue to research to determine if additional programming is needed.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:
Initiative Title:
Respondent:
Date:
5.d4
Expand the breadth and reach of non-degree programs and non-credit courses
Cathy Canney
October 7, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

New courses added each semester to offerings from GCE, Extended Campus and CPS that are open to non-degree
students. Expanded outreach to lower NH and other geographic regions through various media forms.

District based teacher licensure programs (non-degree) continue in partnership with extended campus partners.

Annual speaker series conducted that attracts area educators for this one day non-credit seminar. March 2011
event with Allison Zmuda on Understanding by Design.

Non-credit courses typically offering professional development points are offered through the CPS.

CPS contracts with Wilson Language to offer non-degree credit for training program.

CPS works with faculty and Fitchburg Police to offer Public Safety Summit in August 2011.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Wilson training program has enrolled hundreds of non-degree students since its inception. The Public Safety Summit
attracted a new audience to campus for a non-credit institute that received rave reviews.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Providing opportunities for area residents and others to participate in courses and programs is directly in line with our
mission. Testing different kinds of programs and events assists us in determining what is most needed and effective.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _6.a.1 Establish enrollment benchmark
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/17/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
An enrollment benchmark has been established based on a number of variable (faculty, staff, capacity of
facilities, etc.)

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The desired outcome has been achieved.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Having a pre-determined enrollment benchmark assists the institution in a number of ways. It allows
to plan for budget, facilities and Human Resources.
us
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _6.a.2 Develop a recruitment and retention plan for academic growth areas
Respondent ______Robin Bowen____________________________ Date _____12/19/11_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
A recruitment plan is being developed as part of the Academic Plan (currently being developed).
A decision was made to create a retention plan that would not be limited to academic growth areas,
but would be more global. At this point in time, we have created a pilot plan, based on CSI data, to
coordinate retention efforts at a department level. Once the pilot is complete, the project will be
expanded university wide.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The plan was developed and early stages implemented in Fall 2011. As such, it is too early to evaluate
outcomes at this time.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Too early to evaluate at this time.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative # 6.a2 Initiative Title________________________________________
Respondent ___Pamela McCafferty______________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The initiative is dependent on the creation of an academic plan, which is in process.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #4.2, 4.3 and 6.a3 Initiative Title________________________________________
Respondent ___Pamela McCafferty______________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
We have hired a consulting firm in order to assist us with the development of a strategic plan for the
recruitment of diverse students.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
No determination can be made until the consultant report is received and reviewed by the university.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The report will be used to guide us in the development of a culture of diversity.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative— Balance academic and student life—1.11 and 6.b1 ________________________
Respondent _______Robin Bowen and Stan Bucholc__________________ Date _11/14/11_______________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
3. Some students were overly involved in student life activities, to the detriment of their academic
studies. To address this issue, GPA requirements were instituted for participation in Student Life
clubs and organizations.
4. When the strategic plan was written, there were concerns that students worked too many hours. This
goal was intended to encourage students to either cut back on work hours and/or to work on
campus.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
3. Per the Dean of Student and Academic Life, this strategy is working.
4. Given the state of the economy, we do not feel justified asking students to curtail work hours nor
are there enough on-campus jobs to meet all student work needs.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
3. We will continue to impose GPA requirements for participation in Student Life clubs and
organizations.
4. We propose the university discontinue this component of the plan at this time.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Increase student satisfaction with services—6.b2
Respondent: Stan Bucholc Jay Bry/AnnMarie Dunton
Date 6/8/11
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?


During the 2010-2011 academic year the housing application was changed to be online. Both new and
returning students can now apply for housing on-line. New students can also request roommates through
the on-line process. Most returning students, who selected their own room, were also able to do it online
All SAL areas collect survey/assessment information for their areas and services.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?


Moving towards an online process was very successful. New students find applying for housing and
requesting a roommate easy. According to the student satisfaction survey completed spring 2011 resident
student satisfaction in regards to the room assignment process increased. After the room selection
process was complete we conducted our own evaluation of the process and solicited SGA for feedback.
The student feedback was they want the last piece online for the 2011-2012 academic year.
All areas report monthly, by term and yearly regarding usage, student input and areas to be addressed. All
areas have made adjustments to the services offered, their timing or new provisions based on their
feedback.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?


We are building the Any Hall selection piece of room selection to an online selection process. We are also
planning additional ways to educate students on the process so they are prepared for the online
selection.
The reporting information is used for program refinement and new initiative development. This also
contributes to identifying any resources needed to achieve the results.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative Title: Enhance the electronic experience for students______—#_6.b3
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Installed and integrated Blackboard IM.
Created a laptop repair database.
Created a student online guide to joining their system to the network so they can do some steps from home.
HDMI connections in classrooms.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. We installed this and tested the system last year. In October of 2011, we’re marketing this to students and
making a concentrated effort to increase adoption.
2. This system not only tracks all student laptop repairs, it posts updates on the web and emails updates to
students so that they can easily see what the status is of their system.
3. We reduced our eNAC issues by 33% at the start of this year.
4. Students, especially our CommMedia students, often produce work in high definition that can’t be viewed
in classrooms. We’ve begun making this standard on all rooms and as we upgrade them, the systems are
upgraded so that this will become our new baseline.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. This is an amazing communication device that can bring students together as well as help direct them to the
appropriate staff centers for help. We’ll continue to support and market this so that help is more readily
available. We’re also meeting with functional areas, like student services, to promote this.
2. Based on feedback from IT staff and the students, we’re modifying this system to enhance its usability and
communication. This is a great example of automating a process that also provides a much better level of
service than what we offered in the past. It also sends the students their receipts via email, so we’ve
reduced paper usage and form costs considerably.
3. This greatly reduced the hassle and time to get student-owned devices attached to the network and get them
to an approved and reliable state. We’ll continue to look at services that can be modified to self-service
and we’ll keep this information up to date.
We will continue to talk with departments and monitor our technology to provide the most current services needed.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ______ Improve transfer student experience—6.b4
Respondent _____Stan Bucholc__________________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
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Implemented the “early deposit transfer advising/registration process” from May to September and winter break
each year. The process provides individualized advising through the Advising Center and a one stop process to
placement test/advise/register/ receive college credentials and parking in one appointment session. This is a
benefit to students who deposit early…. Approximately 300 transfers take advantage of the program.
Implement the Mass Transfer statewide agreement and approve individual programs at other State institutions.
Implemented a revised transfer student mathematics readiness policy that makes it less restrictive and provides a
seamless transfer of math readiness and college work [ACC 35].
Identified a university ombudsman to resolve transfer issues.
Hired a staff member to review and monitor transfer agreements and Mass Transfer programs.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.
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The early deposit transfer program is very successful with most summer transfers [for fall term] using the program.
Mass Transfer has been implemented at the university and students from community colleges and beginning to
enter as the statewide program comes into effect.
The revised math readiness program has been implemented and most transfer students have benefited from the
streamlined process.
The Mass Transfer officer has reviewed and acted upon 90% of the programs submitted by the community colleges
across the state. She has also coordinated with all the transfer officers at the community colleges.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

The university has “institutionalized” the processes as a regular part of operations and will adjust
processes as more students participate and provide feedback.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ______ Increase commuter students’ engagement—6.b5
Respondent _____Stan Bucholc__________________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

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A staff member has partial responsibility for commuter student affairs and programming.
Increased events and activities specifically for commuter students.
Implemented specific sessions during fall orientation for commuter students in addition to the regular offerings for
all students.
Developed and maintain a commuter student lounge within Student Avenue.
Sponsor a commuter student club through SGA with additional representation on SGA.
Regularly have a table and representation at open house events, SOAR, Presidents Reception for Students and
other recruiting/admissions events.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.

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The full time staff member for commuter affairs has been hired and has developed programs and events with
increased participation by commuter students.
A complete commuter orientation has been implemented coinciding with the regular university orientation
program.
Promotion of Commuter Affairs has been effective at all university wide recruiting/admissions events with
increased inquires and participation by students and parents.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

A full, regular program of commuter events and activities is being developed and implemented using
feedback and input from current participating students.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative # 6.b5 Initiative Title: Increase commuter students’ engagement
Respondent: Hank Parkinson Date: October 5, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 We hired a new staff member to build the commuter affairs program
 Offered a commuter orientation for the third year in a row with 215 in attendance
 Maintained a high level of service through lockers, lounge space, website, newsletter
 Offered programs geared towards commuters such as, money management, candy apples, root beer
floats, least & tenant workshop, caffeine cart
 More commuters are involved in Club and Organizations, Orientation Leaders, SGA, FAB, Greek Life

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 We are implementing a commuter survey and focus group in the next few months.
 A large percentage of our commuters live in off campus housing, meaning in the Fitchburg
community. Of this population many are engaged in activities.
 Commuters are feeling like they are part of this community. They know that they are welcome back
and can participate as much as the resident student

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 We will be able to use the information gathered through the survey and focus groups to improve
programs and services.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ______ Maintain and Enhance Student Support—6.b6
Respondent _____Stan Bucholc__________________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

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Staff has been added in the following ways:
o Health services, an additional RN dedicated to male health via the MOC grant.
o Counseling Services, increasing the graduate interns from 2 to 3 interns, including one doctoral level intern.
o Student Development, hiring a per diem staff person and securing an intern to supplement Commuter
programming.
o Secured a Senior Woman Administrator through an NCAA grant to work with student compliance student
groups and academic tracking and service provision.
o Hiring a par time staff member to review Mass Transfer programs.
o Hiring a part time support staff for Multicultural Student Services and Student Conduct.
The construction of a new Health Services facility with additional examination rooms and expanded lab capability.
Continued funding and activity by the university wide Health and Wellness Collaborative.
Implementing the on line service “Health 101” newsletter with timely health related information and life tips.
Addition of department outreach and club outreach by Career Services and the addition of services as “resumes on
the run’, Part time career fair, and alumni career assistance.
Collaborate regularly with Housing and Residential Services for programming and behavior education.
Updated software and technology used by students in the Disability Services area.
Continue with the” Focus on the Future” program with Career Services and Academic Advising for pre majors to
receive assistance with major selection and individual advising.
Expanded peer and professional tutoring to include expanded hours for math center, more individual tutoring,
increased small group tutoring and class linked tutoring.
Have a fully staffed and operational TRIO Expanding Horizons program.
Increased intramural activities through the Recreation Center.
Implemented Leadership training and experience programming though Student Development.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.


All of the above programs are fully implemented and participation by stduents has increased.
All programs are now a part of regular university offerings and operation.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

Further feedback from students will be used to adjust and add programming to continue to meet student
needs.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____ Enhance Academic Advising—6.b7_________________________
Respondent __Stan Bucholc____________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

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Implement training sessions on Web$ and the advising system/curriculum during SOAR, Fall Orientation, winter
orientation and new faculty orientation.
Implementation of the “early deposit transfer advising” program.
Hire current faculty for individualized advising by department/major during SOAR.
Continued student evaluation/survey of the advising process each term.
Updating of the Advising website and annual update of the university 4 year plans of study.
Annual update and distribution of the Faculty Advising Handbook and Guide to Student Support Services.
Collaboration and support for the SGA sponsored “Tips and Tricks” advising period kickoff event each semester.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes.

All events and programs have been implemented with increased effectiveness in using Web 4, preparation for
academic advising, new faculty training for advising and annual advising survey query.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

As programs and activities continue to be implemented, feedback from participants is used to adjust
programming, timing of events and content of programs. New types of events and programs will be
devised based on needs identified by participants.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __ Enhance Academic Advising—6.b7
Respondent _Jay Bry______________________________________ Date _June 4, 2011__________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
 What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The Registrar’s Office was relocated to their newly renovated space in Anthony Student Services Building. The
newly renovated space provides adequate space to support students during the registration process. It is also
connected and co-located with the other student support services allowing students to conduct all business with
one stop.
As part of the renovation of the Hammond Campus Center and Library the Academic Advising Office is being
expanded and relocated. The Academic Advising Office is being expanded to provide individual offices for each
counselor to provide for more privacy while advising students. It is being relocated to the third floor as part of
the overall Academic Support Services Suite to allow for more and efficient collaboration between the support
services many of which support the “at risk” students.
 How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The Registrar’s Office was successful relocated to their new space in Anthony in December 2010 with positive
feedback from both students and staff.
The bidding process for the Hammond Campus Center and Library is on-going at this time so too early to
determine the outcomes.
 How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Has improved efficiencies amongst the student support services allowing for more collaboration and operating
efficiencies while at the same time providing better service and support to the students.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Enhance academic advising —6.b7
Respondent Steve Swartz
Date 11/8/2010_________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
We’ve purchased and begun rollout of the Wimba Pronto communications client to all faculty, staff and
students.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
First results look promising. We got about a 10% adoption rate on the product without advertising it. We’re
waiting on Wimba technical support to fix one issue and then we’ll begin a large push to getting this in use.
This will allow advisors to communicate in an ad-hoc fashion with students even when they are not on
campus.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
As we train users on the system, we expect to see communication significantly improved for all courses,
including distance learning. Having ready access to advisors and instructors electronically should improve the
learning experience significantly.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___Further the integration of student life programming with curricular goals—
6.b8____________________
Respondent ____Robin Bowen and Stan Bucholc_____________ Date __11/14/11_______________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. Student Life staff met with faculty during department meetings to enhance understanding of student
life activities.
2. Exam preparation skills, study skills and stress reduction strategies (presented by Student Life staff)
were scheduled as part of a required non-credit course for Education students.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. Student Life staff report an increase in faculty understanding Student Life operations as well as
increased faculty involvement in Student Life programs.
2. Scores on MTELS have improved since exam preparation skills courses have begun.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We will continue to encourage Student Life staff to visit academic departments intermittently to
continue this collaborative effort.
2. We will continue to provide the exam preparation skills courses and explore providing these courses
to other majors.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _Further the integration of student life programming with curricular goals—6.b8
Respondent _______Stan Bucholc____________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
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A number of class presentations by Student Conduct regarding Academic Integrity and the University policy and
process.
Implemented a “Sophomore Success Program” by Counseling Services and Peer Tutoring in cooperation with the
Nursing department to enhance study skills and stress management.
A number of departments cooperating with planned activities as: Constitution Day, Black History Month, Women’s
History Month, Latino Heritage Month, Cambridge Debates and International Day.
How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

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All activities and events have been implemented and participation is increasing.
More academic departments/faculty are participation in the initiation, planning and implementation of
programs.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

As academic department/faculty participation increases, new programs and events will be developed and
implemented as ideas are suggested.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: _ Increase student participation in daytime and weekend activities.— 6.b9
Respondent _______Stan Bucholc____________________________________ Date _________________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?

The increased use of email notices, improved web site and offering various incentives has increases interest and
attendance.
Surveys were developed to determine program preferences and ideas.
Student participation has increased slightly, especially with commuter students. Monthly series as: café live music,
“quick meals demonstrations with Chartwells, and meet the faculty lunch events have been successful. Other
events like the Red Cross blood drives, stress screenings and alcohol screenings have also been well attended.
Weekend participation has increased, particularly at the Recreation Center. Increased exercise classes, increased
number of teams and participants in intramural activities have been particularly successful.
Specialty days on weekends have had good attendance as Halloween maze, Easter egg hunt, etc.
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How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

Through the use of surveys, email notices and web site development student participation and requests
for activities has increased. The most dramatic increase has been in intramural offerings and participation.
 The now organized commuter student program has improved commuter student participation and
activity. As the program becomes more established at the university students will more actively seek
programs.
 The most dramatic increase has been in intramural activities and participation with nearly half the student
population participating throughout the year.
How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?

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Continue a particular focus on commuter programs and activities now that increased interest has been
achieved.
Use feedback from students to improve and continue intramural offerings.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #: 6.b9 Initiative Title: Increase student participation in daytime and weekend activities
Respondent: Hank Parkinson Date: October 5, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 We have been offering more day time program through the commuter affairs program.
 Increased programs in the morning, lunch time and late afternoon
 The Fitchburg Activities board has been offering more programming on the weekend. They
implemented the first Welcome Back Weekend. They are working on Halloween Weekend. They also
are offering more trips on the weekend.
 We implemented Family Weekend

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 Have not formally assessed this yet, however assessment plans are in place.
 We do know that the numbers have been positive. Students have been showing up to these programs.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 By numbers alone we are learning when to offer programs during the day. In addition, we are getting
a feeling that students want more activities on weekends.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: This response reflects both #2.3 and #6c.1
2. Achieve academic excellence (pursuit of knowledge, professional competency, and scholarship) Increase
opportunities and allocation of resources for professional development
6. Build and maintain a high quality university/ c. Staff training and development:
Respondent: Jessica Murdoch
Date: 11/18/2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The university actively complies with the professional development criteria cited in the collective
bargaining agreements and the employment policy for excluded executive and professional employees.
Where appropriate, and if needed, institutional funds are available to support professional development
activities/events. These efforts for staff development are complemented in the following ways:
o The office of Human Resources creates surveys for staff and administrators to complete regarding
development opportunities they wish to participate in.
o The university has created an assessment program for all clerical support roles.
o Discipline experts are contracted to facilitate on sight development sessions; sessions that were
offered in the past year were: Dealing with Difficult Personalities at Work, all employees; Dealing
with Troubled Employees, for supervisors; “Take Charge of Safety” General Health and Safety
Training; CPR, First Aid Training Course; Domestic Violence and Awareness; IT Training in
Outlook, Excel and Word, Payroll Presentations both group and individual, AFSCME Annual
Training, collaboration with Central Links, presentations: Customer Service; Conflict of Interest;
Collaborated with FAVE co-chairs to train AFSCME Unit I and II employees to meet goals for
100% campus participation.
o The Department of Human Resources offers specialized and campus wide development
opportunities to establish procedural university guidelines seek efficiencies and streamline
processes.
o The Information Technology Department offers on-site Microsoft Office Suite training, Banner
training, and computer security training and collaborates with Human Resources.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The office of Human Resource documents the training activities, and feedback from each program. The
feedback was helpful in determining programs that assisted our employees in their work. The survey
provided the university with specific training programs that the staff and administrators truly desired to
participate in. The rating forms assisted us in bringing back experts that related and engaged well with our
staff and administrators. Other endeavors, many of which are self-directed, lend themselves to personal
professional enhancements which are then applied to the staff’s endeavors/work and take on a variety of
forms that enhance and/or increase competencies. Additionally, annual evaluations of staff and
administrators assist the office in desired programs of training, these are accomplished in accordance with
the respective collective bargaining agreements and the excluded executive and professional employees’
policy, are additional tools used to document professional development and its influence. We continue to
work with other offices to determine specific needs of offices, by doing so this will continue to support the
emerging on boarding program we are working to implement. The assessment program has allowed the
university to determine core competencies of new employees.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Evaluations, surveys, and other miscellaneous documents that are completed, in accordance with respective
collective bargaining agreements, and self-guided professional experiences combine to document
involvement and to provide the basis for additional and/or complementary professional development
experiences that aim to improve skills, service, and efficiencies in the faculty and staff members’ area(s) of
responsibility.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____Promote on-going professional development through financial and material support to
improve skills, service, and efficiency, 2.3, 6.c1
Respondent __Michael Fiorentino/Sheila Sykes/Jessica Murdoch__________ Date ___12/03/10___________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The university actively complies with the professional development criteria cited in the collective
bargaining agreements and the employment policy for excluded executive and professional employees of
its faculty and staff. Where appropriate, and if needed, institutional funds are available to support
professional development activities/events. The university expends approximately $225,000 annually on
such matters. These efforts for faculty and staff development are complemented in the following ways:
o Discipline experts are contracted to facilitate on sight development sessions;
o The Center for Teaching and Learning has an annual schedule of offerings which offer special
appeal to faculty and librarians;
o The Department of Human Resources offers specialized and campus wide development
opportunities. This department will also soon be launching a self-directed Microsoft Office Suite
Academy Program and sessions on “Delivering Quality Customer Service.”
o The Information Technology Department offers on-site Microsoft Office Suite training, Banner ERP
training, and computer security training.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
For the most part, faculty and staff document their development activities via miscellaneous paperwork
which indicates the particulars of the activity. Some of the university’s activities use surveys for a general
awareness of the degree of satisfaction with the development activity. Other endeavors, many of which
are self-directed, lend themselves to personal professional enhancements which are then applied to the
faculty or staff’s endeavors/work and take on a variety of forms that enhance and/or increase
competencies. Additionally, annual evaluations of faculty and staff, accomplished in accordance with the
respective collective bargaining agreements and the excluded executive and professional employees’
policy, are additional tools used to document professional development and its influence.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Evaluations, surveys, and other miscellaneous documents that are completed, in accordance with
respective collective bargaining agreements, and self-guided professional experiences combine to
document involvement and to provide the basis for additional and/or complementary professional
development experiences that aim to improve skills, service, and efficiencies in the faculty and staff
members’ area(s) of responsibility.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __ Design and construct the science building—6.d1
Respondent _Jay Bry______________________________________ Date _October 7, 2011 __________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The work on the construction phase of the project has continued with the pouring of the foundation concrete and
ground level wall/retaining structure. Steel erection is expected to begin in November, and is proceeding as
scheduled.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Overall work continues to be on schedule and within budget.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The CM team along with DCAM and FSU have continued to work very collaboratively to ensure the project
remains on schedule and on budget to provide a state-of-the-art teaching science facility, while at the same time
minimizing the impact to the campus during the academic term.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___Allocate resources to implement strategic initiatives - 6.d2
Respondent __Michael Fiorentino/Sheila Sykes__________________ Date ___11/30/10____________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
On an annual basis, the university allocates resources that allow strategic initiatives to be started and/or
continued. This is done in a variety of ways to include:
o annual resource requests to the area vice presidents and the president;
o periodic request(s,) on an as needed basis, where an event or need occurs outside of the
customary budget cycle;
o a resource request, where individual budgets do not have the necessary funds to cover an
unplanned strategic initiative to the respective area vice president or the president; and /or
o an extraordinary budget request (EBRQ) which is an annual option to request funds required to
support a onetime expenditure for an item(s) or services, not included in operational budgets and
where the funds needed exceed $1000.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
These options for funding resource requests have resulted in the majority of resource requests being
funded for the last three fiscal years at nearly 100 percent with one exception in fiscal year 2009 when
requests were funded at approximately 90 percent.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The university tracks funding requests on both an annual and longitudinal basis and has detailed reports
that itemize requests that can be easily grouped into the goals, objectives, and activities that are included
in the university’s strategic plan.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __6.d2 Allocate resources to implement strategic initiatives
Respondent _Jay Bry________________________________________ Date _11/21/11______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
A number of funding options are available to support strategic initiatives beyond what is incorporated into
individual department operating budgets. As part of the budgeting process departments may submit
Extraordinary Budget Request (EBRQ) to support strategic initiatives. As part of the budgeting process in
FY13 Financial Services will be using a new format by which to collect EBRQ’s request that was
developed in collaboration with IT Services that will provide department’s easier method to submit them
and connect the request to the strategic planning initiatives.
In addition the President and each of the Vice Presidents have “project funds” that they can fund
unexpected expenses and/or to support strategic initiatives throughout the fiscal year. Many of the projects
funded from these accounts are directly related to strategic initiatives including purchase of academic
equipment, faculty travel, and technology improvements.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The budgeting process is just starting so at this time too early to determine how the new EBRQ submission
process worked, but overall in the past efforts have been made to fund nearly all, if not all, EBRQ’s that
were submitted to the president. We are hopefully the new process will be more transparent and more
clearly show the relationship between those items funded and the strategic initiatives.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Following the budgeting process the Executive Committee and Financial Services will review this new
process along with any comments, questions or recommendations received during the process to evaluate
where improvements can be made to continue enhance the opportunity the process and along with a review
of spending patterns to evaluate future allocation recommendations.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative:– Upgrade office and classroom space and academic spaces—__ 6.d3
Respondent _Jay Bry______________________________________ Date _October 7, 2011__________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the 2010 summer, CPM continued the work to complete the annual classroom upgrades – including two at
McKay C in association with the relocation of the McKay Café, and also two classrooms in Percival Hall.
Additionally, the work on Edgerly 3rd Floor was completed resulting in new department offices and faculty offices
for Computer Science and Math. The work at 155 North Street building was completed in December, and the
Exercise and Sports Science department moved into the 1st floor as their new department and faculty offices.
During the summer of 2011, several additional academic or department spaces were also upgraded. These
upgrades included the gut-renovation of the Miller 3rd floor providing upgraded faculty offices for the department
of Economics, History and Political Science. Work was also completed on four new soundproofed Winger practice
rooms in the Conlon Fine Arts Buildings, along with an adjacent classroom. The Conlon IA lobby renovation is
nearing completion and when finished will provide an area for congregation and interaction among building users
that also includes a high-tech media wall display system to showcase student and faculty projects.
Planning also continues for future efforts, including phase 2 of the Miller Hall renovation. Program studies for
both Humanities and Communications Media are being developed/updated to evaluate current and future needs for
learning environment space. Also, an exploratory analysis of Percival Hall is underway.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Each of the projects completed provide enhanced environments for working and teaching.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Providing safe, well-designed, state of the art physical environments, adapted specifically for the audience being
served, insures that the basic needs of faculty, staff and students are met, allowing them focus to remain on the
institutional goal of teaching and learning.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___ – Reduce the need for additional parking__—__6d4
Respondent ________Mary Beth McKenzie __________________ Date _____October 7, 2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The Highland Avenue project, which resulted in a closure of an active street through campus, was completed over
the summer. The result is an addition of pedestrian plaza joining the Mara Village community to the center of
campus and reduction of traffic through the heart of the campus. The remaining street parking is now under the
jurisdiction of the campus, and was reallocated to minimize traffic in this area. The assignment of these spaces
allowed for realignment of two other lots on campus, resulting in a slight increase in parking space for both
faculty/staff and students, and eliminating the sometimes confusing dual use in one of the campus lots. Additional
space was also carved out to replace the lost motorcycle parking from the power plant location, and to replace the
temporary parking for quick pick-up or drop-off trips

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Campus users have quickly adapted to the new Highland configuration and traffic in this area is substantially
reduced – resulting in active use of the plaza and the pedestrian foot traffic has become much safer.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___3.3, 5.b5, 6.d5, 6.d6: Implement green technology/initiatives, reduce energy consumption
and natural resources____________________________________________
Respondent ________Mary Beth McKenzie__________________________ Date _____11/16/2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the period since the previous update, a final draft of the Climate Action Plan was completed. This plan
is currently under review and will be presented to the Sustainability Team for comment, which once complete
will then be presented to the University leadership for comment and/or approval. This tool will help provide
the University with a roadmap for efforts both long and short term for reducing its carbon footprint.
Additionally, now that funding has been designated for the Conlon Roof project, this presents the necessary
opportunity to begin planning for additional solar PV arrays. Between the Conlon Roof and the recently
replaced McKay roof, there is potential for an installation of a large enough size to attract project developers at
a reasonable price to provide clean energy to campus buildings at or below the current market pricing.
Outreach has been made to identify a consultant with expertise in this type of solicitation and a proposal for
this project is currently under review. Finally, investigations have begun to incorporate green energy into
future energy procurement contracts – which will provide an interim mechanism to reduce the University
carbon footprint while technology and infrastructure solutions are being developed and implemented over the
longer term and as budgets allow. This interim strategy will allow us to meet the commitments made by the
University when it became a signatory on the American College and University President’s Climate
Commitment.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
While not producing direct, tangible outcomes at this time, these activities set the stage for future delivery of
outcomes with regard to both energy reduction and green technology implementation goals set by the
University.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The focus of these actions have primarily been planning activities, the end result will be expansion of clean
energy technology and energy use reductions on campus, while also managing and reducing overall operating
costs to the University and insuring compliance with self-imposed commitments and external regulations.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ___3.3, 5.b5, 6.d5, 6.d6: Implement green technology/initiatives, reduce energy consumption
and natural resources____________________________________________
Respondent ________Mary Beth McKenzie__________________________ Date _____11/16/2011___
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
During the period since the previous update, a final draft of the Climate Action Plan was completed. This plan
is currently under review and will be presented to the Sustainability Team for comment, which once complete
will then be presented to the University leadership for comment and/or approval. This tool will help provide
the University with a roadmap for efforts both long and short term for reducing its carbon footprint.
Additionally, now that funding has been designated for the Conlon Roof project, this presents the necessary
opportunity to begin planning for additional solar PV arrays. Between the Conlon Roof and the recently
replaced McKay roof, there is potential for an installation of a large enough size to attract project developers at
a reasonable price to provide clean energy to campus buildings at or below the current market pricing.
Outreach has been made to identify a consultant with expertise in this type of solicitation and a proposal for
this project is currently under review. Finally, investigations have begun to incorporate green energy into
future energy procurement contracts – which will provide an interim mechanism to reduce the University
carbon footprint while technology and infrastructure solutions are being developed and implemented over the
longer term and as budgets allow. This interim strategy will allow us to meet the commitments made by the
University when it became a signatory on the American College and University President’s Climate
Commitment.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
While not producing direct, tangible outcomes at this time, these activities set the stage for future delivery of
outcomes with regard to both energy reduction and green technology implementation goals set by the
University.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The focus of these actions have primarily been planning activities, the end result will be expansion of clean
energy technology and energy use reductions on campus, while also managing and reducing overall operating
costs to the University and insuring compliance with self-imposed commitments and external regulations.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #_Initiative Title: Continue to update the comprehensive master plan for facilities—6.d7
Respondent ________Jay Bry_______________________________ Date ____October 7, 2011_________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The Comprehensive Master Plan, completed in 2006, called for two phases of modernization and improvements: 15 years, and 6-10 years. Of the first phase of actions the vast majority of recommended action items have either
been completed, partially completed or are currently underway, including the completion of the Anthony “one
stop” student service center and adjacent Highland Avenue pedestrian plaza, modernization of the science facility,
increase in residence hall beds, and renovation of the Hammond Campus Center and campus gateway, the
completion of the North Street streetscape and pedestrian improvements, and the accessibility study and
improvements. Many of the 2nd phase improvements has also been completed, partially completed or underway,
including the Miller, Dupont and Weston renovations.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Utilizing the comprehensive master plan to has helped guide planning and prioritization for capital improvements
across the campus. Significant change has occurred in almost every building on campus, delivering improved
areas for interaction, teaching and delivery of services.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
We will continue to use the campus master plan along with the strategic plan along with input from the Board of
Trustees to continue to guide the renovation and construction on campus. As progress continues with the current
master plan it will be necessary in the near future to begin discussions with DCAM regarding updating our campus
master plan to insure the campus, in conjunction with DCAM and MSCBA, have identified priorities and has
completed the due diligence necessary to avail itself of funding opportunities and synergies with other strategic
efforts.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Perform a communications audit and develop recommendations— 6.e1
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
By definition, a valid communications audit would be conducted by an outside agency (as with a financial
audit, for example). Given current budget constraints and other priorities, this effort has been postponed.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Create a more effective communications strategy (perhaps a clearinghouse) 6.e2
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Methods of improving the delivery of internal communications, primarily electronic, have been under
discussion. With the dissemination of information multiplying exponentially, this is a timely issue for
which we will continue to seek to better serve our community.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Valuable discussions have resulted in a number of potential solutions.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 6.e3 Maintain Campus-Wide Institutions to Formalize Communications.
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
External affairs, working with the marketing team, embarked on an effort to impress upon the
campus community the importance of presenting all forms of university communication with a
unified message, high-quality content and visual continuity. This includes monitoring material and
instituting checkpoints.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Analysis suggests that a wide range of internal constituents have increased their awareness of a
unified approach to all communication emanating from the university.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
This ongoing effort to foster an understanding of the critical need for all institutional
communication—verbal, written, visual and electronic-- to properly reflect our mission and goals
in a professional manner will enhance general public perception of the university.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: __6.e4 Provide opportunities for college community input into budgetary decisions
Respondent _Jay Bry________________________________________ Date _11/10/11______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
As part of the FY13 budgeting process Financial Services in collaboration with Academic Affairs is
implementing a new budgeting process that we hope will provide individual departments, particularly the
academic departments, with more input into the budgeting process. As part of the process Financial
Services will be providing each department with a” Department Budget Activity” worksheet that will
include all funding sources, University, Foundation and scholarship in one concise format along with trend
analysis. Financial Services will also be offering additional budget training sessions along with offering
one-on-one assistance for those departments that would like additional assistance in reviewing and
analyzing their budget. Then department heads working with their faculty and staff will develop a
proposed budget to be submitted to either the area vice president or president, according to established
supervisory reporting lines. Each vice president will then review the proposed budgets submitted by the
respective department in consultation with the department head. Then the president’s cabinet will review
the request relative to other pertinent variables, such as anticipate state funding, to develop a the annual
university operating budget for submission to the Board of Trustees. In addition to the annual budget
submission the Board of Trustees receive regular detailed updates throughout the fiscal year on the
financial operations of the university. This includes quarterly financial statements, investment updates,
fund balance updates along with supplemental budgets proposals. In addition, the president has at least two
university-wide meetings to discuss the budget, funding and related financial matters such as collective
bargaining.
Also as part of the budgeting process in FY13 Financial Services will be using a new format by which to
collect EBRQ’s request that was developed in collaboration with IT Services that will provide departments
with an easier way to submit EBRQ request with the goal of increasing input and transparency to the
submission process while also connecting the request to the strategic planning initiatives.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The budgeting process is just starting with these new efforts so at this time too early to determine the
effectiveness of the new initiatives. Relative to the president’s open forums it does provide individuals
with an opportunity to ask questions about the budgeting process and financial health of the institution. For
individuals who may not be able to attend the president’s presentation is made available on the web site
following the completion of his forums. As a public institution all meetings of the Board of Trustees are
open to all community members who may have an interest in attending weather it was related to financial
matters or any other item the board was addressing. At the start of each board meeting the Chair ask for
any comments from the public providing individuals an opportunity to share their thoughts, concerns, or
interest with the Board. In addition all votes and records of the Board of Trustees becomes a public record
and is available in the university’s library archive or on the Board of Trustee web page.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Following the budgeting process Executive Committee and Financial Services will review this new process
along with any comments, questions or recommendations received during the process to evaluate where
improvements can be made to continue enhance the opportunity for the community to have input into the
budgeting process.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative #: 6.e5 Initiative Title: Explore the development of programs to increase student participation in
campus life
Respondent: Hank Parkinson Date: October 5, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
 Attendance at events continues to increase. Last year we had 160 events with over 40,000 in attendance
compared the year before we had over 20,000 in attendance.
 This past month we had 14 events with over 2000 in attendance.
 Students were engaged in orientation activities and Family Weekend
 Leadership program is growing, we launched a new Advance Leader Retreat this past fall
 Orientation Leader applications were up last year
 More students are involved in clubs & organizations

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
 Again, assessment is one of our number goals this year. We plan on doing a complete program review
this spring.
 We did do an assessment for our clubs & organizations-results were favorable.
 The number of participants tells us we are doing something right.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
 The more students engaged, the better the place becomes.
 As we collect data we will be able to see how we are doing and make improvements where needed.
 We are still working on a card swipe machine to tract attendance at events.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Explore the development of programs to increase student participation in campus life—6.e5
Respondent: Jay Bry /AnnMarie Dunton
Date 6/8/11
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)
 What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
On a yearly basis housing staff evaluate programming expectations and conduct training on expectations to the
student staff. The Housing and Residential Services, Student Development and Rec Services staff meet on a
monthly basis to discuss and plan collaborative programming efforts campus wide. The housing staff has also
worked with other departments and student organizations such as Campus Police, Health Services, Counseling
Services, Student Conduct and Mediation, Crocker Center for Civic Engagement, SGA and BSU/LASO.
 How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Collaborative efforts tend to be successful since multiple departments are pooling resources and reaching out to
students in multiple ways to advertise.
According to the student satisfaction survey completed spring 2011 resident student satisfaction in regards to
residence hall programming remains the same.
 How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The monthly meetings between Housing and Residential Services, Student Development and Rec Services will
continue for the 2011-2012 academic year. We have also planned some campus wide events for the fall semester
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: ____Implement a plan to engage the campus in achieving a culture of diversity
4.1 and 6.e6_____________
Respondent __Robin Bowen____________________________________ Date ___11/11/11____________
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
5. A plan was created (see attached).
6. In Fall 2011, five special projects grants of up to $500 each were offered to faculty and librarians to
allow them to purchase materials (e.g. books, CDs, DVDs, etc.) to enhance diversity and/or a global
understanding in their programs.
7. Additional foreign language courses were offered this past year (see initiative 1.6).
8. We enhanced the tutoring portion of the Summer Bridge Program and also revised the Freshman
Seminar component based on student needs.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
5. Creating a plan was key to beginning to address these strategic objectives. Representatives from
Academic Affairs, Student Development and Human Resources participated in the creation of the
plan.
6. Three faculty members applied for and were awarded funds to purchase materials to enhance
diversity/global understanding.
7. See initiative 1.6 for outcomes.
8. We felt our efforts were successful and that the implemented changes better met student needs.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
5. Again, developing the plan was the first step in the process and is key to making improvements in
this area.
6. Plans are to continue to provide this funding and to encourage more faculty to apply for these funds.
7. While we feel we have met the intent of this goal, we will continue to provide foreign language
offerings to meet student interest and needs in the larger community.
8. We will continue to implement these changes, as well as evaluate for any further needed changes to
the program.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Maintain and highlight small college feel —6.F1
Respondent
Michael Shanley
Date Fall, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
The emphasis on the university’s close knit, supportive environment continues to be a major component of
publications, advertising campaigns, our website, and other marketing / public relations initiatives, in both
the graduate and undergraduate divisions.
Excerpts from sample ads:
“While our new name reflects the comprehensive institution that Fitchburg State has become, our classes
are still small, and personal.”
“… The faculty still work one-on-one with students…”

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The enrollment increase of recent years is due to a variety of factors, one of which is our ongoing efforts to
promote the university as an institution with the combination of a wide array of choices and opportunities,
as well as a family-like atmosphere.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
This initiative has been a key focus of marketing efforts for years, if not decades. Evidence suggests that
our marketing claims (i.e. “small university environment”) are supported by enrolled students’ experience.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Create a more effective communications strategy (perhaps a clearinghouse) 6.f2
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Methods of improving the delivery of internal communications, primarily electronic, have been under
discussion. With the dissemination of information multiplying exponentially, this is a timely issue for
which we will continue to seek to better serve our community.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Valuable discussions have resulted in a number of potential solutions.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Assess current day and GCE audiences and integrate new ones into marketing plan.— 6.f3
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
GCE has expanded marketing activity to include more of southern New Hampshire. In addition, our
partnerships with the Fitchburg Sentinel and Yahoo have resulted in expanded reach in our
geographic zone and behavioral segment (higher education).
Increasing our online presence with the creation of a facebook profile and accompanying increased
digital marketing will integrate new audiences that are not reached by our current marketing plan.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
The addition of behavioral marketing has allowed us to target audiences more effectively (breadth
of options) and efficiently (minimal waste). In addition savings have been realized by
implementing an online bulletin. Also, retiring the print bulletin has afforded us the opportunity of
expanding our reach on mailing lists.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Embracing new technologies, combined with changing habits of our target audiences, will allow us
to expand our reach while improving cost-effectiveness.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Develop new technologies to market day and GCE—6.F4
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Both GCE and day programs have dramatically expanded use of such new technologies as electronic
newsletters, website marketing and, most importantly, the various aspects of social media: Facebook,
Twitter, and You Tube.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Since most new technologies have built-in tools that provide statistics on the number of people who are
accessing the information we disseminate, it is easy to measure response in terms of raw numbers. More
difficult is tracking effectiveness, e.g. how many new students enroll after having

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Being “virtually” in close touch with our constituencies on a daily basis, with the added aspect of two-way
communication, adds a critical component of our efforts to enhance the university’s profiles.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: 6.f5 Inform students, faculty and staff and community of Fitchburg State’s safety record
Respondent Michael Shanley
Date _Fall, 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
Campus Police publish and widely disseminate extensive safety information to the university community,
while also making presentations at orientations, open houses, and campus and community gatherings.
The department maintains a voluminous web site and a FaceBook page with a vast number of resources.
In addition, our campus police work closely with Fitchburg city police to reduce criminal activity in the
university area; that information is clearly communicated to students, parents and other interested
individuals.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
Both internal and external audiences are well informed regarding the campus’s safety record, as well as
the expertise, training, recording and other efforts that bring our successful efforts to fruition.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
Continue to explore additional methods and venues to disseminate the information.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative Title: Update the College web site__________ Initiative #_6.f6
Respondent _Steve Swartz_____________________________________ Date _9/21/2011_______
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
1. We’ve selected a new content management system and engaged a consulting partner to replace the current
site.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
1. We are targeting a go-live of the new site in November.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
1. We’ve changed the core purpose of the site towards marketing and providing information focused more on
students and prospective students. After go-live there will be many changes based on usability testing
results.
Fitchburg State University
Strategic Plan Progress Report
Planning Initiative: Update the college web site —6.f6
Respondent Michael Shanley
Fall 2011
(Briefly describe the current status of the planning initiative identified above by responding to the questions below.)

What actions have you taken to implement or advance the planning initiative?
This project was undertaken in the fall of 2010, with the redesigned site scheduled to be in operation by
November of 2011.

How effective were the actions described above in bringing about the desired outcomes?
It is anticipated that the new site will be a significant technical and visual improvement.

How will you use the information you’ve acquired to improve institutional effectiveness?
The new site will allow for much more effective recruitment, communication and overall marketing.