At Point Park, students come first

Fall 2009

As an institution of higher education, Point Park juggles many complex aspects of running a busy, urban campus. But we never forget our core mission is educating students in a diverse environment -- and our students are the focal point.

To underscore our commitment to exemplary service, the University launched the Striving to Achieve Remarkable Service program in early 2009.  STARS is a staff service initiative that supports our guiding principle of Quality Student Experience. Whether we are talking to prospective students about all the University has to offer or supporting current students through their years of study, Point Park strives to make students our top priority.

On Sept. 29, 2009, President Paul Hennigan, staff and faculty members across campus wore special black shirts bearing the STARS logo as a visual reminder of the importance we place on service to our students and the larger University community.

As part of the STARS program, the University so far has recognized 10 employees for extraordinary service and has developed service improvement plans for departments through the University. The goal is continuous improvement - always striving to do better.

It's rewarding to know that people are taking notice. President Hennigan recently shared with University faculty and staff a letter he received from a parent whose daughter was about to begin her freshman year at Point Park, the "college of her dreams."

The father wrote that his family has been "pleasantly surprised by your staff members and faculty."

"Every individual we have dealt with in every department has been so helpful and pleasant. Every time we've called or written, we have received the needed help with courtesy," he wrote.

We continue to work to ensure that everyone involved with Point Park -- particularly our students -- feels the same way.  It's all part of the Point Park experience.

Photo by Bethany J. Foltz, senior photojournalism major