The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) is beginning the new academic year with an increase in student enrollment and several campus initiatives. According to the Office of the President, enrollment has risen by 7 percent compared to last year. The announcement credited teams in student affairs and academic affairs for their efforts in admitting, advising, and registering students.
"I am thrilled to welcome all of these students to our campuses and watch them take steps to change their lives through CSN. We are truly the community’s college, and we reflect the diverse needs of each community we serve," said the president.
The summer included tours of various program areas and office hours at different campuses. The president also attended a Chamber of Commerce luncheon in Mesquite, highlighting CSN's role as a primary higher education partner for the region.
"Thank you to Darlene and Chantile for setting that up and for doing such amazing work! I can’t wait to see the others!" said the president.
A ribbon-cutting event was recently held at the Historic Westside Education and Training Center. The president recognized Frank Woodbeck and the Government Affairs Team for their contributions, along with Stavan Corbett and his team from DWED.
"Congratulations to all, including the incomparable Frank Woodbeck and the Government Affairs Team! I am excited to see how Stavan Corbett, his DWED team, and others will shake things up and open those doors for new opportunities to our residents in the area!" said the president.
Next week, CSN will hold Connections events across its campuses. These gatherings aim to introduce students, faculty, and staff to available resources, student clubs, and campus activities.
"There’s a lot to be excited about for the new semester and lots of enhancements that will take place over the year. We are looking forward to the launch of 'The Den' at each campus in the student unions. Much like the den in which coyotes live and thrive together, The Den will serve as a welcoming hub for students, faculty, and staff to connect, build community, and strengthen their sense of belonging at CSN. Look for the new signage — coming soon!" said the president.
In addition to growth initiatives, CSN is establishing a Presidential Executive Budget Advisory Committee (EBAC). This committee will address budget challenges by developing sustainable solutions with input from shared governance groups, executive leadership, and subject matter experts.
"Our budget realities will require us to be nimble, and this committee will help us identify sustainable solutions for our future," said the president. Regular “Conversation with the President” meetings are planned throughout the year to keep stakeholders informed about developments affecting CSN.
The message emphasized ongoing support for academic freedom, free speech rights under law, inclusivity efforts on campus, as well as civic engagement among students and employees.
"As higher education continues to adapt to the current landscape and navigate the waters of change, so must CSN. However, we will remain dedicated to supporting academic freedom of our faculty, the opportunity for any citizen to speak and express themself freely under the protection of freedom of speech, and we will honor our commitment to making our working and learning environments a caring place for our diverse population of students and employees — one that values inclusivity, culture, and civic engagement."
Faculty members were welcomed back alongside administrative faculty and classified staff who have been preparing throughout summer months.
"I am thrilled to welcome back our returning faculty and welcome our new faculty to CSN. You educate our future leaders, and we are grateful that you chose CSN as the place to do that. Your contribution to our students builds them up and sets them on a path toward success!"
The president concluded by expressing optimism about CSN’s future: "The strength of CSN is woven into the fabric of our combined and connected experience as students, faculty, and staff. I am truly the proud president of CSN and welcome the new school year with a sense of excitement for our future and hope for our students."