As I reflect on serving in three transformative academic years as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Western Michigan University (WMU), I am deeply grateful for the collective dedication and commitment of our faculty, staff, and students. Together, we have embraced challenges, seized opportunities, and worked tirelessly to fulfill our mission of academic excellence, inclusivity, and student success. The milestones we have achieved are a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of our WMU community.
Enrollment Milestones
WMU has made significant strides in student enrollment, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing higher education landscape.
- Overall Growth: In Fall 2023, WMU achieved a 2% increase in new student enrollment across undergraduate and graduate programs—marking only the third such increase in a decade. This growth reflects our strategic focus on accessibility and inclusion.
- Graduate Success: Graduate student enrollment grew by an extraordinary 7.2%, the largest increase in over 30 years and only the second increase in a decade. This remarkable growth, particularly in the College of Education and Human Development (up 30%), can be attributed to new partnerships with Michigan school districts and expanded opportunities for advanced learning.
- First-Year Class Achievements: Despite state and regional enrollment challenges, WMU’s Fall 2023 first-year class was 16.3% larger than the Fall 2021 cohort, a significant and positive trend during a time of contraction in higher education across Michigan.
- Diversity in Enrollment: In Fall 2024, WMU achieved significant growth in underrepresented minority (URM) enrollment:Black/African American first-year enrollment increased by 26.7% over Fall 2023 and 25.4% over Fall 2022.Latinx student enrollment grew by 4.7% from Fall 2023 and 8.9% from Fall 2022. Total URM enrollment rose by 4.8% over Fall 2023 and 2.9% over Fall 2022.First-year URM enrollment increased by 14.5% over Fall 2023 and 13.8% over Fall 2022. These achievements underscore WMU’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Retention Success
Retention is a cornerstone of student success, and WMU has achieved record-breaking results in recent years.
- Record Retention Rates: In Fall 2024, the first-to-second-year retention rate reached an all-time high of 81.1%, representing a 4.6 percentage point increase over two years. This milestone reflects our focus on providing the resources and support students need to thrive.
- Retention Gains for Marginalized Groups: Historically underrepresented populations have seen notable increases in retention:Black/African American students improved by 1.0 percentage point.Latinx students experienced a 6.2 percentage point gain.Students identifying as two or more races saw an impressive 9.6 percentage point increase. Retention improvements reflect the success of initiatives like the Success Hub and programs supported by the Empowering Futures Gift, which have revolutionized how we support students both academically and holistically.
Graduation Rate Milestones
Graduation rates at WMU have shown remarkable progress, further closing equity gaps and advancing educational outcomes.
- 4-Year Graduation Rates: The 4-year graduation rate increased by 1.7 percentage points, with a 3.1-point gain among First Generation students and a 4.8-point improvement for Latinx students over two years.
- 6-Year Graduation Rates: In 2024, WMU achieved the second-highest 6-year graduation rate in its history, following a record-setting performance in 2023.
- Equity Gap Reductions: The 6-year rate gap for URM students decreased by 4.6 percentage points over two years, demonstrating WMU’s dedication to educational equity.
- Specific Gains for Key Populations: The 6-year graduation rate for Black/African American students improved by 6.1 percentage points, and Pell-Eligible students experienced a 2.9-point increase.
Faculty Development and Innovation
WMU continues to prioritize faculty success as a driver of academic excellence and innovation.
- Innovative Pedagogy: Faculty innovation has been celebrated through grants recognizing creative and impactful teaching methods.
- Targeted Hiring: We have focused on hiring diverse faculty who engage with historically marginalized communities in research and creative activity.
- Strategic Initiatives: Investments in artificial intelligence and big data initiatives have enhanced both research capabilities and educational experiences, ensuring that WMU remains at the forefront of innovation.
- Retention Strategies: Competitive spousal hiring packages, bonuses for achieving recognition in national and international rankings, and professional development opportunities have strengthened WMU’s ability to attract and retain top-tier talent.
Commitment to Students
The success of our students is central to WMU’s mission. Guided by the university motto, “So that ALL may learn,” we have taken bold steps to prioritize student voices and perspectives.
- Student Representation: Student perspectives are now an integral part of decision-making processes, with student representation on leadership committees and the establishment of a dedicated student advisory committee for the Provost’s Office.
- Holistic Support: New initiatives, such as the Success Hub and enhanced academic support services, provide students with the tools and resources they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing the challenges ahead.
- Adapting to Changing Landscapes: Despite statewide enrollment challenges, WMU’s growth demonstrates resilience and strategic foresight.
- Executive Leadership: Strategic hires from prestigious institutions such as Arizona State University, Florida International University, and Northwestern University ensure that WMU is well-positioned to navigate the evolving higher education landscape.
Carrying Forward a Legacy of Resilience and Hope
As Maya Angelou wrote in And Still I Rise, "Bringing the gifts my ancestors gave." Over the years, our work has been honored on the covers of Insight Into Diversity, Diverse: Issues In Higher Education, and DIVERSITY in Ed. These accolades are a recognition of the tireless efforts of those who came before us and those who push forward today for equity and opportunity in education. I am deeply humbled to stand alongside this community of change-makers, carrying forward a legacy of resilience and hope. Together, we rise.
Final Thoughts
As Michelle Obama beautifully said, "Success is... about the difference you make in people’s lives." WMU’s journey over the past three academic years exemplifies the remarkable outcomes that collaboration and dedication can achieve.
I invite anyone interested in learning more about our strategies and achievements to connect with us. Together, we will continue to shape a brighter future for WMU and the students we serve.
With gratitude and determination, Julian Vasquez Heilig
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Western Michigan University
