Oakton's president focuses on communication in first month

While Oakton President Joianne Smith hasn't solved world hunger or brought about world peace, she has made important strides in her first month at the helm by fostering and strengthening internal connections within the college.

One of her first priorities was to institute "Pasta with the President," a monthly casual luncheon that allows students to meet face-to-face with Smith. During the hourlong meeting, she encourages students to openly share their experiences at the college.

"Students are our North Star and the reason why we're here," said Smith, who started as president on July 1. "I love our students and want to know what's on their minds. It's important for me to receive feedback from our students - good or bad - in order to find which areas could be improved upon."

"The president really cares about us and takes our concerns seriously," said student Ali Khan who attended an Aug. 6 luncheon with Smith.

Some students were unsure what to expect at Pasta with the President.

"At first, I thought the event was just going to involve socializing with other students," said Evelyn Ofeimun, a student worker in the Oakton Educational Foundation Office. "But (Smith) really wanted to get our viewpoints, and being heard shows how much she values what we have to say. I also was impressed with how down to earth she is - as she insisted we address her by her first name. The luncheon was a fun and friendly atmosphere that left me feeling inspired."

Smith has also established "Coffee and Conversation with the President," a monthly open forum for employees, staff, and administrators.

"I'm learning lots of things I never knew before about the college," said Manager of Media Services John Curtis at the forum on July 8. "I think it's a wonderful idea to bring departments together that normally don't interact with each other."

Smith plans on making such forums a monthly staple. "I've been at the College 13 years, and now I'm in a different role where it's more important to listen," said Smith, who has also spent her first month as president meeting one-on-one with Trustees and reaching out to union leaders. "I need to be able to understand things from various aspects and perspectives."

As president, Smith knows that her work is just beginning.

"In the future, I plan to reach out to external parties such as superintendents of high schools, business leaders, and local legislators," she said.

Her long-term goals include working on the college's strategic and master plans as well as getting the college ready for reaccreditation with the Higher Learning Commission.

"There's a lot of priorities ahead," Smith said.