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Kentucky State University Acting President Clara Ross Stamps focused on strategic directions regarding campus, constituents and culture when she convened faculty and staff Aug. 9 for Fall 2021 Encampment.

The event officially began the first half of the academic year for Kentucky State. Encampment brings together the campus community, Frankfort community leaders, and alumni in finding effective ways of developing ideas, pursuing innovative strategies and applying knowledge.

“Success is directly tied to an institution’s capacity to show great care in all areas of its operations and mission,” President Stamps said. “As long as we believe in each other and the work we generate as faculty and staff, our students will reap the benefits of our collegiality and professionalism by becoming great professionals and citizens. Our example will be the principle of what higher education is truly designed to be: the essence of human potential. I know you represent the best of Kentucky State University. This is an awesome, special place to be.”

Encampment speaker Dr. Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) and former interim president of Kentucky State, spoke to those assembled about ignoring the noise and leading Kentucky State to a brighter future through a shared vision.

“Leading change is a creation of intentional processes,” Thompson said. “Leading change takes all of us.”

Dr. Helio Fred Garcia, author and recognized expert in the field of issue communication, provided the afternoon keynote session. 

Garcia spoke about crisis response, including foundational principles of how trust works at the level of institutional leadership; during times of change; and during times of stress in ways that leaders of every kind can operate in ways to restore and enhance trust. 

“Crisis is the moment of choice where trust is on the line, where you face danger and opportunity,” Garcia said. “How you choose determines which one you end up with.” 

Michael N. Weaver Jr., former Kentucky State University SGA president and Mr. Kentucky State, returned to the Hill to provide inspiration to the campus community. Weaver is currently studying educational leadership and policy at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

“I wanted to come here to remind you all of the impact you have on students,” Weaver said. “You all are the seeds we plant in our students. When you are ready to quit, sometimes the impact we have on students isn’t communicated. Don’t take for granted the work you do.”

Encampment concluded with breakout sessions to promote courageous conversations about campus culture and climate.