University and college commit to cooperation

A new body will explore ways that the University of Windsor and St. Clair College can be “better together,” says acting provost Bob Orr.

The Cooperative Development Committee demonstrates a serious and evolving relationship between the two institutions, he says, pointing out that its membership includes senior administrators from each school.

“It reflects a broader commitment to combine strengths and best practices,” says Dr. Orr. “Are there things we can do better together than separately?”

He says existing articulation agreements in a number of disciplines provide an example of cooperation that benefits students, adding that the new downtown campus increases opportunities for collaboration in services and operating processes.

“It puts us in physical proximity for the first time,” says Orr. “We will want to look for educational resources we can share.”

He cites the college’s experience with the Blackboard learning management system, which the University is just beginning to roll out: “Now we have colleagues right here who have a fair bit of experience implementing this system.”

Besides Orr, the committee comprises UWindsor vice-president planning and administration Sandra Aversa and registrar Alice Miller, and representing St Clair College, Patricia France, senior vice president, college operations; chief financial officer Dolph Barsanti and registrar Mike Silvaggi.

The group has held an inaugural meeting; members invite suggestions for avenues to explore with regard to collaboration to benefit both institutions.