How do you improve Leeward Community College’s programs and pathways for students and the community? That is the question that almost 100 industry and community leaders addressed at Leeward CC’s first joint meeting of the college’s 14 advisory boards and committees in November. Local business, education and government leaders gathered to strengthen partnerships that benefit students and the community.
Leeward CC’s advisory boards and committees play a vital role in bridging academics and industry. They promote collaboration, offer curriculum recommendations, identify trends and innovations, and advocate for the college.
Their support has yielded significant achievements, including accreditation for Leeward CCʻs automotive technology, culinary arts, health information technology and teacher education programs. Recently, the Advisory Board for Management helped develop a new course, BUSN 164, emphasizing soft skills and professionalism. Advocacy by the Substance Use Disorders Advisory Board led to a $2.2 million U.S. Health Resources & Service Administration grant to support the program.
An ‘eye-opener’
The joint meeting included participants from the Tony Group, Servco Pacific, the Hawaiʻi Department of Education, Hitachi Rail, the Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture, and Chef Zone.
“It was an eye-opener for those from the west side,” said Danny Wyatt, Waiʻanae Moku coordinator. “[It was] almost difficult to end the meeting as the Waiʻanae board members were fully engaged and quite animated at times.”
The new joint meeting will not replace traditional biannual sessions for the groups, but does offer a more comprehensive opportunity to strengthen collaboration.
Umehira said, “We were thrilled to show our appreciation for their guidance and support. We definitely want to do this again!”
Workforce development is one of the UH System Strategic Plan’s four imperatives.
