HWC administration restructures to focus on student success

By Hector Morales
Staff Writer

Newly appointed administration members of Harold Washington College are collectively restructuring student services in an effort to create a more student-centered environment.

HWC President, Daniel Lopez Jr., reorganized administration positions in July in conjunction with faculty, staff and students. Current administrators Dalila Duarte and Shang-Kwei Wang have shifted into new roles that will focus on student achievement and success. Duarte, formerly Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, is now Vice President of Student Affairs and Wang is the new Vice President of Academic Affairs.

“We are trying to provide wraparound services to students so that they can succeed academically and emotionally,” said Duarte. She is responsible for services such as the Wellness Center and activities such as the Student Government Association.

Wang, who oversees ten departments including advising and tutoring, said that she meets with Lopez and Duarte twice per week to collaborate towards their goal of student-centered instruction and services. New ideas include creating an undocumented student resource center within the Student Affairs department.

“It is a calling for me,” said Lopez, who was an undocumented student when he attended HWC. Lopez is utilizing personal and professional experiences to create more options for students, including an advisory council for recruitment and retention to keep students engaged. The administration is also considering merging various departments and centers, such as the Tutoring Center and Advising Office.

The restructuring also lends to efforts of assisting students struggling with the Covid-19 pandemic. Students in need of services or assistance are encouraged to contact the respective HWC departments through Zoom or email during business hours.