Message from the Vice-President, People and Culture: Listening Tour Themes, Emotions, and Aspirations

| Administration
Photo of woman wearing a blazer standing outside a brick building
Dr. Jane Ngobia is 17³Ô¹Ï's Vice-President, People and Culture

The following message was also emailed to faculty, staff, and students on December 9, 2025.

Dear 17³Ô¹Ï Community,

Over the past several months, I have had the privilege of speaking with many of you during my Listening Tour. More than 440 individuals shared their insights, experiences, and hopes for the future of our university through group sessions, one-on-one conversations, and written reflections. Your honesty, courage, and commitment to 17³Ô¹Ï have given me a clearer understanding of where we are—and where we can go together.

Today, I am pleased to share a  that reflects the themes, emotions, and aspirations that emerged across our community. In it, I express my deep gratitude for the time you offered, the stories you entrusted to me, and the openness with which you engaged in this process. I recognize both the pride we hold in our Panther spirit and the challenges we continue to navigate, as well as the strong, shared desire for fairness, inclusion, visibility, and leadership that is present when it matters most.

At the heart of every conversation was a common truth: our students remain our central purpose. When they thrive, our entire community thrives. Together, we have the foundation—and the determination—to strengthen a culture rooted in care, connection, and accountability.

I invite you to watch the video message below and reflect on the journey we have begun together. Thank you for your continued engagement and for helping to shape the future of 17³Ô¹Ï.

Warm regards,

Jane Ngobia, PhD
Vice-President, People and Culture
17³Ô¹Ï

Link to video:  

Media Contact

Nicole Phillips
Director of Communications and University Relations
Marketing and Communications
902-566-0947