5Q: Kristine Goodwin

 / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
/ PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1Why has Providence College created a new post, assistant vice president for integrated learning, and promoted its director of career education to fill it?

This move is our response to questions about the value of a liberal arts education and concerns about return on investment. We want their “return” to be good lives of meaning and purpose. For that to happen, students need to invest more than money; they need to invest their time and do so with intention. This position will create and direct innovative programs and services to influence student success and readiness.

2What is integrated learning?

My favorite definition comes from the American Association of Colleges and Universities: “Integrative learning is an understanding … a student builds across the curriculum, from making simple connections among ideas and experiences to synthesizing and transferring learning to new, complex situations within and beyond the campus.” … Integrated learning is important. Our companies and communities need graduates who can do these things.

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3How are you implementing these changes with students?

We start the first day they, and many of their parents, step foot on campus. We ask them to expand their definitions of “return” and “investment.” We tell them to expect more and to give more. We acknowledge the anxiety that thinking about life after college can provoke and suggest preparation as the remedy. Our Academic Affairs and Student Affairs areas, informed by our Office of Mission and Ministry, collaborate on programs and services and communicate consistent messages.

4How is the college strengthening students’ workforce readiness?

The career-services office “of old” reviewed resumes, edited cover letters and taught students what fork to use at dinner meetings. While still doing these things, today they need to do much more. Our center for career education and professional development helps students discern and prepare for who they will be.

They begin by teaching self-insight, move toward exploration, facilitate practice and experience, and provide skill development.

5What are the additional organizational shifts that will result?

Besides building the Arthur and Patricia Ryan Center for Business Studies this year, we are planning The Friar Development Center – a renovation of Slavin Center and the entrance to Concannon to increase the visibility of the integrated learning centers. The new space will invite students into workshops, interviews and one-on-one meetings. •

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