5Q: Frank Sanchez

 / PBN PHOTO/TRACY JENKINS
/ PBN PHOTO/TRACY JENKINS

1 You previously were vice president for student services at the City University of New York. How is that system similar to Rhode Island College?

It was vastly different, in that CUNY is a collection of 25 campuses with 274,000 students. But it is also quite similar. Like CUNY, RIC has one of the most ethnically diverse student populations of any public college. Nearly half of our freshmen are first-generation students.

2 The R.I. Department of Education in January released a report that was critical of what many consider RIC’s brand – graduate degrees in education. What is being done to address the deficiencies in teacher-education programs?

RIC’s teacher-certification programs are approved for the next three years and continue to be nationally accredited. All current and incoming education students will be eligible for their teaching certification upon graduation. We have some work to do, and that work has already begun. In partnership with Education Commissioner Ken Wagner, we will appoint a change mentor to facilitate the improvement process and make recommendations.

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3 The school administration and counseling graduate programs were not renewed beyond existing students. What is the next step?

We will reapply for approval after we make recommended improvements. Once we reapply and have been approved, we will recruit new students for these programs.

4 What is your impression of the student body at RIC and its greatest need?

From cutting-edge research in our science labs, to professional-level artwork in our studios, to the latest simulation technology in our nursing labs, our students are managing today’s complex issues in a mature and productive manner. RIC students often face more challenges than other colleges, with many having to work more hours to afford school and support their families. We need to be cognizant of this and offer support to our students so they can excel in the classroom.

5 What will you do to support innovative teaching at RIC?

As a strategy to further enhance a culture of learning innovation, we will invest in our exceptional faculty, leverage our academic expertise and embed student experiential-learning opportunities throughout the entire collegiate experience. •

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