Karla Rendon
Editor in Chief
University of La Verne President Devorah Lieberman discussed the University’s achievements, challenges and upcoming plan to improve the academic climate during her State of the University address Wednesday in LaFetra Hall.
Lieberman’s speech, which was live-streamed online, covered the 2020 Strategic Vision, the University’s visibility and growth since 2010.
“I believe we’re mission-driven and I believe we are getting more and more data-focused to achieve that mission,” Lieberman said.
The topics stemmed from a survey of 120 people and Lieberman displayed the survey results in a slideshow, making it easier to follow the statistics.
According to Lieberman’s presentation, 50 percent of people who participated in the survey saw the most improvement in the University’s visibility and reputation, but 42 percent of respondents felt the University failed to improve human and financial resources.
“We had a strategic plan for diversity, but today we have asked what it means to be a Hispanic-serving institution,” Lieberman said.
“We’re intentionally addressing diversity and diversity issues.”
Lieberman said the academics, facilities and public art are being examined in order to better comply with the diverse climate at the University.
Multicultural Affairs Director Daniel Loera suggested having a multicultural center on campus as a learning space.
“It needs to be a center for all,” Loera said.
The University’s endowment has increased since 2010, Lieberman said. It is currently $68.8 million. Assets went from $184 million in 2010 to $315 million today, and the budget increased by 53 percent in the last six years. The amount of full-time faculty has increased by 57 with a current number at 263. The number of adjunct professors has also increased by 93 bodies since 2010 with a total of 603 adjuncts.
Throughout the talk, Lieberman asked the audience for suggested improvements to the University. Among the suggestions: a recital hall, dormitories for the Ontario campus and designated visitor parking.
Avo Kechichian, chief financial officer, said the University should stop subsidizing the College of Law.
“We don’t get subsidies, we get investments,” said College of Law Dean Gilbert Holmes.
Lieberman concluded the presentation by thanking those who participated in the survey.
“I believe we are focused on our students’ success,” Lieberman said. “That’s what we keep coming back to.”
Karla Rendon can be reached at karla.rendon@laverne.edu.
