The WCU
Action Plan
"These are exciting times at West Chester University. Through our Action Plan effort, I invite the entire University community to think differently about how we work together, support our students, and engage with one another. This is not some strategic planning process that will end with a report that gathers dust. Instead, it’s a flexible, community-driven call to action focused on doing better, thinking bigger, and fostering moments. I hope you’ll join me on this journey."
Dr. Laurie Bernotsky,
President
Short Video Summary of the Plan
In this short video, you’ll learn more about the three drivers that shape our action plan — Be Better, Think Bigger, and Foster Moments — and how you can contribute.
You can watch the full video of my remarks from the Fall Address, where I shared the genesis of this effort. It’s only about 30 minutes, but it gives you a more complete picture of where this is going. You can also download the full version of the PowerPoint that provides more detail.
WCU Action Plan: Three Drivers
Be Better
- Being better doesn’t have to mean “more” work, rather it’s about embracing doing something differently
- Focus on intentional change
- Reflect on personal habits and dynamics with others
Think Bigger
- Solve issues at their root rather than repeatedly putting out the same fires (upstream thinking)
- Consider the ripple effects of decisions across units (downstream thinking)
- This will help us reduce burnout and increase long-term impact
Foster Moments
- Prioritize meaningful, personal experiences for students and others we serve
- Continue to create the conditions for life-changing moments to be part of every student’s experience
The Action Plan in 3D
After months of listening to you and learning what is on your hearts and minds, I was inspired to visualize this plan using a 3D model of a pyramid as a metaphor for how our priorities and actions connect. It’s unconventional, but that’s exactly what we need right now. This new model is:
- Built on WCU’s existing strengths
- Collaborative and adaptable
- Designed to evolve over time
What You Can Do Right Now
PHASE ONE: GET PERSONAL
(NOV. 2025 – JAN. 2026)
We’ll do this work in a few phases. First, I’ll challenge you to look inward and ask if there is something you can do personally to “get to awesome.” I’m doing this part too, so I know it isn’t always easy. But it’s worth it.
This isn’t about your job description or improving on tasks, it’s about you — as a person. Maybe you want to manage your time better, reduce stress, or communicate more clearly. No matter what it is, take some time to reflect and record your thoughts using this "Get Personal" worksheet .
You won’t be required to give it to anyone — this is for YOU — though you are welcome to share it with your colleagues, your friends, or family.
This is a starting point on our journey and will help prepare you for engaging, intentional conversations with your colleagues in the next phase.
PHASE TWO: GET TOGETHER
(FEB. 2026 – APRIL 2026)
COMING SOON: We’ll provide the tools you need to create and submit an “Action Item” as a unit or in collaboration with other units.
Timeline and Milestones
A Vision of “Awesome”
We’ll know we’ve reached “awesome” when:
- Every student is thriving and engaged in experiential learning
- Social, financial, and environmental sustainability is built into everyday decisions
- West Chester is known nationwide, and recognized by name
- WCU is a trusted community partner and resource