By Ramon S. Torrecilha, Ph.D.
A good first start is critical to success, and I have benefited over the years from a well-developed personal strategy for new beginnings. Farewells, on the other hand, are another story. No matter how you plan and prepare for them, they can be tough or, at best, bittersweet and mixed with a sense of loss and anticipation for a new beginning.
After 30 years in higher education—with four and a half at Westfield State University—and with a five-year strategic plan for the University firmly in place, I announced in early 2020 that it was time for me to pursue personal interests, learn new things, see more of the world, and slow down. I do so at a time when Westfield State University is well-positioned for continued relevance and success.
As my tenure drew to a close amid a global pandemic, my final semester on campus was atypical to say the least. However, what came at a time of unprecedented uncertainty was unprecedented collaboration at Westfield State to ensure the continued success of our students.
This characteristic collaboration brought about incredible progress at Westfield State in recent years. Together, we achieved great strides, which today provide an effective pathway to the many more accomplishments yet to come.
I am proud of all that we have done to advance Westfield State while making it more inclusive and accessible to communities where college enrollment has traditionally been low.
It is my pleasure to recap some of the University’s accolades during my tenure that serve as a tremendous source of pride. Working with an outstanding leadership team, our talented faculty, and dedicated staff, we have enhanced the experience and success of the students we serve and inspire in the following ways:
- Increased prominence of Westfield State locally, regionally, and nationally;
- A formalized The Westfield State Experience, enabling students to formalize their four-year path for academic and life achievement;
- An increase in institutional financial aid by over $1 million;
- A re-energized The Westfield Promise to provide underserved area high school students with an early college experience;
- Strategic and beneficial partnerships with area community colleges to create more and better pathways for a variety of student populations;
- Leadership and management in the aftermath of a series of bias and hate incidents on campus to heal the campus community and strengthen its security;
- Established the college structure informed by the recommendation of the University’s Advisory Committee on Academic Planning;
- An additional $40 million in state funding for capital improvements, including the long-overdue renovation of Parenzo Hall;
- Funding the Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities; and
- CASE recognition of Westfield State’s strides in fundraising success over three years.
We achieved these things together, through collective accomplishments and a shared passion for student success. We have moved Westfield State ahead. Our institution is poised for even greater things. It can and should take a leadership role nationally among regional public universities.
This has been an immensely rewarding final chapter in my higher education career. It has been an honor to work with our community and business partners; area legislative, municipal, and educational leaders; and neighbors and friends, who realize the important role Westfield State University continues to play in the region. To all of you in the community who have helped us continue to advance the mission of our wonderful University and our alumni’s important role in strengthening the area workforce and enriching communities across the Commonwealth: We thank you. You have played such an important and valued part in my journey and in the history of Westfield State.
I wish Westfield State University and the Greater Springfield community much continued success. It has been a pleasure to be part of your community over the last several years.
Ramon S. Torrecilha, Ph.D., served as the 20th president of Westfield State University since December 2015.
