Faculty changes for long-term success

GAGANDEEP KAUR
GRAPHIC DESIGNER

KATELYN THOMAS
STAFF WRITER

9/8/2025

As the semester begins it is important to acknowledge the adjustments that Alma College has made to their current staff and faculty. 

Last year, Alma College decided to remove six positions permanently, and filled nine vacant positions. Additionally, they decided to combine a few departments.

“Every decision is made with fulfilling the mission of Alma College top of mind. No cuts are easy,” said President Dr. Joe Odenwald.

Alma prides itself on the close connections staff and students are able to foster one-on-one. Typically, there is a twelve to one ratio between faculty and students.

“The steps we are taking now — both reductions and strategic investments — are designed to ensure Alma College remains strong for generations to come. To this end, we are aligning operational expenses with actual revenues for a campus of 1,100-1,200 students rather than one with 1,300-1,400 students,” said Odenwald.

These changes are made for the college’s current and future success, both academically and financially.

The departments that filled vacant positions varied based on needs for students. The following departments filled one vacant position: Biology, Business, Integrative Physiology & Health Science, Mathematics & Computer Science, Nursing, and Psychology. 

The Engineering department made one new addition, and the Education department filled three vacancies. 

“There have been some new hires in areas that most directly support Alma’s mission and long-term sustainability. These additions are carefully considered within the same four-year budget framework, ensuring that resources are aligned with the programs and services that will best serve students now and into the future,” said Odenwald.

Additionally, Alma decided to combine the Communications Department with the English Department.

“I think the Communication Major has been moved to a more appropriate department (English). NMS (New Media Studies) and Com (Communications) studies had much different needs and made it much harder on the chair to oversee,” said Professor Matthew Doggett. 

There were staff and faculty adjustments at Wilcox Health Center. Wilcox provides on campus care for students whether it is for medical services or counseling.

 “The staffing reduction will have some impact but currently we are not experiencing longer wait times for appointments and do not have a wait list,” said Associate Vice President of Counseling and Medical Services, Anne Lambrecht. 

 There adjustments include a reduction in one licensed counselor staff position and a new addition to the clinical team as a counseling intern.

“Our team is committed to maintaining the highest possible standard of care and are working hard to meet the needs of our students. To help minimize disruptions: We are implementing adjusted scheduling models to prioritize clients with the highest needs. We are exploring adding a group therapy option. We are reducing some of our outreach programs to prioritize clinical counseling appointments with students,” said Lambrecht.

Moreover, there were staff adjustments within Student Affairs. Student Affairs provides services and opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

“There has been an impact on Student Affairs as a result of the campus wide rightsizing plan. The full extent of that impact will not be fully understood until the end of the year. While there may be areas where capacity is stretched, our commitment is to provide as much support as possible to maintain a vibrant and engaging campus life,” said Vice President of Student Affairs, Damon Brown.

Alma College’s staff reductions have made for a lot of adjustments. Nonetheless, change comes with a lot of opportunity for growth. Staff and faculty members are optimistic about Alma’s future.