DURANGO, Colo.—Addressing more than 100 staff members in the Student Union Ballroom, Dr. Heather Shotton, the sole finalist for the presidency of Fort Lewis College, shared her vision for the institution before taking questions from the audience.
When asked about her perspective on student affairs and student engagement, Shotton explained that her background in student affairs helps her understand the critical role these departments play in student success and why students have always been at the heart of her work.
In a series of open forums on Wednesday with faculty, staff, and students, followed by meetings with Tribal partners, 麻豆免费高清无砖码区Foundation Board members, donors, and community partners on Thursday, Shotton discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the college and outlined her plans for achieving the ambitious goals of the 2025-30 strategic plan set by the College and adopted by the 麻豆免费高清无砖码区Board of Trustees.
Shotton, a first-generation college graduate and Indigenous woman, reflected on how her experiences and mentors shaped her dedication to student success. In her role as president, she said she intends to listen to the 麻豆免费高清无砖码区community and build on its strengths.
The discussions, filled with enthusiasm and anticipation, ranged from lighthearted banter about Shotton’s favorite band to more serious conversations about the future of higher education. Her openness and approachability allowed participants to engage in candid conversations about the college’s challenges.
One staff member, who comes from a marginalized group, expressed their gratitude for the college’s efforts to create a welcoming space, noting, “I’ve never felt as safe as I do here. It’s not just the policies, it’s the people—the sense of community is something that really stands out.”
Shotton responded to questions about challenges the college might face and stressed that relationship-building with industry, local schools, families, and communities across the region and state will be crucial for the college’s growth.
“We have to be responsive to students’ evolving needs,” Shotton said. “Our focus must be on belonging, community, and academic offerings that reflect what students and learners are looking for.”
Throughout the forums, Shotton made it clear that her vision for the college’s future relies on collaboration and community and encouraged all 麻豆免费高清无砖码区faculty, staff and students to work together, share resources, and build partnerships across departments.
“As we move forward into this new chapter, it’s not just about creating new opportunities—it’s about making sure we’re creating opportunities for everyone.”