2020 Vision gives strategic planning a new look

Blue signs dotting Texas Wesleyan say one thing: A comprehensive campus improvement push is underway — and it’s already making a big difference.

"Right now, we have more than 30 projects we’re working on across campus to improve and enhance our facilities," Brian Franks, director of facilities operations said. "You can’t really walk anywhere on campus without seeing or hearing the progress."

New sidewalks. New benches. New furniture. Everywhere you look, campus enhancement projects to improve the visual appeal and safety of the University are in the works. These projects are in addition to the Rosedale street improvements and the new campus entryway to be unveiled next spring.

The projects are a part of the University Strategic Plan, a vision for the University spearheaded by President Frederick G. Slabach and the campus community to transform Texas Wesleyan into a university that promotes an intentionally small atmosphere where students thrive.

Safety and aesthetic improvements

You might have noticed the new sidewalks and benches, but other projects currently taking place include:

• Campus-wide irrigation system installation
• Campus-wide landscaping improvements
• Campus-wide furniture replacement
• New parking lot on Wesleyan St. with lights
• Fencing surrounding all dumpster receptacles
• Locker room and restroom renovations in Sid Richardson Center
• New outdoor tables and restroom renovations in Brown Lupton Center
• Security cameras and surveillance signs for student housing
• New, monitored fire alarm system for Stella Russell Hall
• Repair to Eunice and James L. West Library doors
• Interior renovations to McFadden Science Center –painting and ceiling tile replacement
• New carpet in areas of the Oneal-Sells building

Renovations to residence halls

Renovations to both Elizabeth Means Armstrong Hall and Otho C.  Armstrong "OC" Hall are also well underway, thanks to a donation from the son for which the dorms were named. James C. Armstrong’s donation of more than $1 million is making the following projects a reality:

• New landscaping
• New fire alarms
• Kitchen and study lounge upgrades
• Electrical upgrades to all the rooms

More than meets the eye

Led by President Slabach, the projects seen around campus are a part of the larger campus-wide 2020 Strategic Plan to give Texas Wesleyan a strong foundation for excellence.

In addition to campus enhancements, goals of the strategic plan include academic distinction, improving the student experience, advancing financial vitality and marketing and branding initiatives to improve the University’s visibility. Strides towards these goals are visible through:

• Stories of student success and critical thinking
• Reaffirmation of SACSCOC accreditation
• Renewed focus on the campus visit experience
• Fiscal responsibility and budget planning
• Increase in overall applications and completed applications

What are you working on that is helping the University reach its Strategic Plans? Email communications@txwes.edu to share your stories.