December 19 Kentland Rotary
Did you watch WGUI in the tournament last night? Ms. Ginger Walker and Ms. Kristi Smith Public Relations Coordinators for Western Governors University Indiana told the Kentland Rotary Club that the University has no sports teams, no campus, and they hold their graduation in the State Capitol. WGUI opened in Indiana in 2010 with the support of Governor Mitch Daniels and no state funds. WGU Indiana is supported by the Lumina Foundation for Education, Lily, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. According to the WGUI’s website, WGU Indiana is an online, competency-based university designed to expand access to higher education for Indiana residents. Established by the state of Indiana in partnership with Western Governors University, WGU Indiana is designed to serve the needs of Indiana citizens. WGU Indiana offers more than 50 accredited BS and MS degrees in high-demand career fields and has about 1,700 students at the current time. Seventy six graduates were recognized during the ceremony at the Indiana State Capitol in August.
There are students from 91 counties enrolled in 53 online, competency-based degrees offered by WGU in Indiana in areas of Education, Business, Information Technology, and Health Professions. Newton County is the only county with no enrollees. WGUI is non-profit and the tuition is less than $6,000.00 per year and students can proceed as fast as they reach each competency. Most students that enroll are currently employed and are seeking to complete a degree that was interrupted by life experiences. The average age of the graduates this past August was 40; the youngest grad was 22; the oldest was 60. Details can be found at www.indiana.wgu.edu or by calling 1.866.225.5948.
The Kentland Rotary Club is considering a scholarship to WGIU to encourage residents to enroll and complete their education. Ginger and Kristi were the guests of Roberta Dewing.
