The Reinhardt University President’s Advisory Council was energized during their quarterly meeting Thursday after hearing an update on the happenings at the University and a message from the new director of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning.
Dr. Mason Conklin, assistant professor of music and director of the Center, told PAC members of the Center’s mission of educating faculty so they are even better equipped to serve students. Part of this mission is achieved by developing relationships across the community and forming partnerships that give students opportunities for service learning, internships, global and diverse experiences, and research.
“This community relationship is so important to us at Reinhardt and it’s important to our future. We need to understand what is going on in our community – we need to know where we are going and we need to go there together,” said Provost Mark Roberts.
Cherokee County Manager Jerry Cooper, who leads the PAC as its chairman, praised the community relationships between Reinhardt and the county, sheriff’s office, school district, and businesses and organizations. Last year, Reinhardt and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office solidified an educational pathway agreement for employees of the sheriff’s office to further their education at Reinhardt.
“I appreciate the update from Dr. Roberts and the great work that Reinhardt is doing. We have a great public safety agency and law enforcement in Cherokee County and that doesn’t happen by happenstance. It takes a lot of work and great leadership and through the work that Reinhardt is doing, ensures we are the best. I would consider us the best in the region, if not the state of Georgia. The numbers show it.”
Roberts’ update included the educational pathway agreement with the sheriff’s office, along with a similar partnership in the works with the Cherokee County School District, and the history of the launch of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Engaged Learning. He also told PAC members that the first cohort of the Cauble School of Nursing & Health Sciences will graduate this December.
The President’s Advisory Council is a group of community members who assist with advising President Kina Mallard and her executive leadership team to lead Reinhardt into the future. Those interested in becoming members of the PAC should contact Bonnie DeBord, executive assistant to the president, at (770) 720-5502 or by email to BHD@Reinhardt.edu.
