Presidents' Update

September 2026

Dr. Sharp speaking at Snyder ISD Board Meeting

Dr. Sharp speaking at Snyder ISD Board Meeting

As we move further into the fall semester, I am encouraged by the momentum across Western Texas College. This month, we made meaningful progress in securing external funding, strengthening partnerships, advancing institutional priorities, and enhancing the student experience.

INVESTING IN WORKFORCE OPPORTUNITY

I am pleased to share that WTC, in partnership with the West Central Texas Workforce Development Board, Inc., has been awarded $654,571 through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s 2026–2028 Texas Innovative Adult Career Education (ACE) Program. The funding will expand workforce training, career readiness, and student support for low-income students and Veterans pursuing high-demand, higher-earning careers.

WTC also submitted a proposal to the Greater Texas Foundation through its Efficient Pathways at Texas Public Community & Technical Colleges grant opportunity and received a $2,500 Poka Lambro Community Giving Initiative Grant. These efforts help expand opportunities for students while advancing our strategic priorities.

WTC Funding Priorities

ADVANCING OUR PRIORITIES

The WTC Foundation released its funding priorities, identifying five areas for philanthropic investment: Agricultural & Rodeo Excellence, Student Success & Scholarships, Community Wellness, Innovation & Workforce, and Athletics & Community Pride. Aligned with Serving Students Together: A 10-Year Strategy for Western Texas College (2026–2036), these priorities provide a framework for connecting philanthropic support with WTC’s future.

The Foundation is already making an important difference. During 2025–2026, more than 100 scholarships totaling $143,538 were awarded to WTC students.

We also recently completed updates to key institutional publications, including the College Catalog, Employee Handbook, Housing Handbook, and Student Handbook, ensuring students and employees have clear and current information to guide them throughout the academic year.

WTC Priorities

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Serving our region requires WTC to remain visible and engaged in the communities we serve. This month, I provided public comments during Snyder ISD and Ira ISD Board of Trustees meetings, continuing conversations with our K–12 partners.

These relationships are essential to expanding access and creating stronger pathways from secondary education to college, credentials, and meaningful careers. By listening to our partners and identifying shared priorities, we can create greater opportunities for students throughout our region.

SUPPORTING THE RESIDENTIAL STUDENT EXPERIENCE

This academic year, we are strengthening the Resident Assistant program through a newly developed model led by Mr. Darryl Davis. The program provides a more structured approach to supporting residential students, including regular touchpoint meetings guided by a new curriculum designed to foster connection, promote well-being, identify student needs early, and connect students with appropriate resources.

I am pleased to recognize our 2026–2027 WTC RAs: Jayla Everett, Carson Hammond, Cooper Jauz, Ramon Chavez, Stefan Campos, JT Boyd, Briuna Harper, and Melanie Olivares. Our RAs help create a safe, welcoming, and supportive residential community while serving as important resources for their fellow students.

LOOKING AHEAD

The progress taking place across WTC reflects the power of connection—to our students, schools, workforce partners, donors, and communities. This is how we bring Serving Students Together to life: through the relationships we build and the opportunities we create.

Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, trustees, Foundation supporters, and community partners for continuing to move WTC forward. I am grateful for all we are accomplishing together!

Dr. Laurie Sharp

People first. Purpose always. Forward together.

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