In February, I shared important updates designed to position Western Texas College for long-term strength and sustainability. I am deeply grateful to our employees and students who engaged in the Town Hall and Community Meet-and-Greet, submitted feedback through the Google Form, and reached out directly. Your thoughtful input is shaping how we move forward together.

One key transition is the adjustment from Admin Staff to the WTC Leadership Team, which ensures that all major areas of the college are represented in institutional planning. This team serves as a two-way bridge to elevate ideas forward while communicating clearly, consistently, and transparently back across campus.

We also updated staff and faculty leadership titles to better reflect the scope and responsibility of each role, improve clarity internally and externally, and align more closely with peer institutions. In addition, portfolio adjustments across areas of the college were made to improve coordination, strengthen student support, and maintain operational continuity.

Strategic office relocations are also underway. These moves are guided by a clear goal: to create a more student-centered environment that enhances accessibility, collaboration, and service to our students.

Through my Listening Tour, I gathered valuable insights to help refine WTC’s mission, vision, and values as part of the WTC Strategic Plan 2026–2036, Serving Students Together. These refinements are not about redefining who we are — they are about sharpening our focus, clarifying our purpose, and strengthening our shared direction.

As part of WTC’s commitment to long-term sustainability, the WTC Leadership Team has thoughtfully reviewed our staffing priorities and overall financial outlook. Significant declines in oil and gas production, coupled with reduced appraisal values, have led Scurry County to project a substantial decrease in appraised values — estimated at 60% or more when production, pricing, and mineral lease impacts are combined. While this presents real challenges, we are approaching this moment with clarity, proactive stewardship, and disciplined planning.

For the upcoming fiscal year, our financial priorities include:

• Finalizing and implementing a Professional Staff pay scale

• Strategically advancing the addition of an Institutional Analytics Director

• Adding an Online Instructional Designer to strengthen institutional effectiveness and expand

  student support

WTC stands at a defining moment. The external environment is shifting, and the work ahead will require focus, collaboration, and courage. Yet I am confident in who we are and what we can accomplish together. With disciplined planning, transparent communication, and an unwavering commitment to students, we will navigate these challenges and emerge stronger, more aligned, and better positioned to serve our communities for years to come.

Thank you for your engagement and steadfast belief in WTC. The future of WTC will be shaped by the choices we make now, and I am proud to move forward with you!

Dr. Laurie Sharp

People first. Purpose always. Forward together.