Mott Community College president reflects on her first year in Flint

Flint Journal File Photo

FLINT, MI -- It's been a little more than a year since Beverly Walker-Griffea took over as Mott Community College's president.

She hit the ground running on Aug. 27, 2014.

Walker-Griffea came from Maryland, where she was senior vice president for Student Services at Montgomery College. And now in Flint, she's gotten a better sense of the college and the community. 

Here's what she had to say when reflecting back on the first year:

How was the first year at MCC and in Flint?

It was a great year! It was exciting to learn more about Mott College's history, how it has developed into the institution it is today and, after our College Conversations, where we want to head as a college – together.

As for Flint, I have had an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the culture here and how Mott College has impacted Flint and Genesee County, and how it can continue to impact a forward trajectory for the community. I have attended many community activities and events and joined several important boards and organizations that have given me a broad perspective of the community and the role Mott College has played and continues to play.

What did you learn in your first year?

I feel I am in the right place at the right time. I believe Mott College has had a major impact on the economic viability of this community and it needs to remain an educational leader in skill development, career readiness and transfer programs.

I learned that people in our area are some of the warmest, friendliest people in the nation. I have had a wonderful welcome that has helped me become a part of the fabric of the community in a short time. I have found Flint to be an area of hope and determination. I believe we will have the comeback this area deserves because of people's willingness to achieve and move forward.

What was accomplished at MCC in the last year?

One of the most important things we accomplished is coming together as a college family of friends to talk, listen and develop our vision for our preferred future. This was effected through College Conversations and cross-college committees that established The MCC Commitment for Employee Success and The MCC Commitment for Student Success.

We launched new student success initiatives to improve student completion, created more opportunities to transfer to four-year degree programs, secured more than $3 million in grant money from the Community College Skilled Trades Equipment Program to purchase new equipment for our technical and health care degree programs and implemented new degree and certificate programs in Criminal Justice, Counseling and Business.

What are some of the challenges the college has yet to face this year?

When you talk about challenges, I like to talk about opportunities. Funding is always something we are looking to improve. With the decrease in property taxes and state funding, we are looking forward to increasing new funding streams to continue the tradition of excellence we offer this region. We will be launching new workforce, International, and philanthropic initiatives.

What are some of the things you would like to accomplish in this next year?

MCC will turn the vision into action steps. We will spend considerable time implementing the MCC College Commitment for Employee Success and the MCC College Commitment for Student Success. There will be extensive concentration on retaining and graduating our student population, especially those students that are at risk for not completing. We will expand resources, services and offerings to meet the needs of a diverse community.

Looking forward, what role do you see MCC playing in the community?

First, I want you to imagine what this region would be like if there had never been a Mott College. What would Flint and Genesee County look like today if this community had not had Mott Community College?

Looking forward, I want Mott College to remain the catalyst for opportunity it has been for many generations. An opportunity for individual success and cutting edge skill development that contribute to economic stabilization for the entire region. I see Mott College's role as providing the opportunities needed for people to pursue their dreams and achieve their career goals.

What was the best experience you have had so far in the Flint area?

I have two – one at the College and one with the community at large.

My best experience at the College – beside graduation, which is always the pinnacle of the academic year – was the Mott, Motown and More event. I loved how community members, business persons, MCC alumni and college personnel all came together to provide a first-class, fun show that raised thousands of dollars for scholarships for our students. It was a great night! I am so proud that Mott produced this quality entertainment for the community.

My best community experience was the Crim Festival of Races. It was the first time I participated in an official race, I have done many walks for charities and causes, but never a professional race. It took the experience to a whole new level and I felt good about participating and finishing. I am excited to set my goal for next year's race. The entire day was filled with community spirit. I saw people I had met from many different facets of the community. We all were celebrating individual goals and everything good Flint has to offer. It was a really special day.

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