California Lutheran University has launched a new committee called SteerCo. This group, made up of nine faculty and staff members, is here to shape the university’s priorities on enrollment, finances, and sustainability.
SteerCo is part of a wider initiative called “Propelling the Mission.” Caitlin Hodges, the director of executive operations, introduced this at a town hall meeting on March 5. The aim is to get everyone on campus involved in sharing their ideas for improvement.
The committee includes key university figures such as President John Nunes, Vice President of Administration and Finance Dave Lawrence, and Vice President for Student Affairs Melinda Roper. According to Hodges, the selection focused on individuals who represent the university’s mission and engage in meaningful discussions.
Laureen Hill, the Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, emphasizes the need for committee members who are not just “yes people.” She wants individuals willing to challenge ideas and contribute fresh perspectives. Roper adds that SteerCo aims for transparency and accountability while focusing on what truly matters—students.
SteerCo will assess various initiatives across six main areas: enrollment growth, scholarship strategy, philanthropy, program portfolio, talent management, and cost alignment. Kyle McIntosh, a lecturer in the School of Management, describes their responsibility as deciding which ideas to move forward. “We basically give a thumbs up or down,” he says.
The committee also seeks to involve the entire campus community. Hill acknowledges that times have changed, and students are now thinking differently about their education and career paths. As a response, SteerCo encourages everyone to submit innovative ideas via an initiative statement form available on the MyCLU homepage.
According to recent studies, 68% of students want educational institutions to focus more on career readiness. Hill sees this as a sign that universities need to adapt swiftly to meet student needs and expectations. “We want champions for those ideas,” she says, highlighting the desire for passionate advocates who can bring concepts to life.
This approach reflects broader trends in higher education. As institutions face new challenges, they must remain flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of students. By fostering a culture of open dialogue, SteerCo aims to keep the university grounded in its mission while exploring new paths for growth.
Ultimately, the goal is clear: to create a more inclusive, dynamic, and responsive university environment that aligns with the mission while addressing the demands of today’s students.
If you’re interested in learning more about California Lutheran University’s goals and initiatives, visit their official page on the [Cal Lutheran website](https://www.callutheran.edu/president/ptm/).
