CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The incoming president of the University of Charleston says he plans to increase community partnerships to enhance student learning.
“A successful university isn’t just going to provide great learning for students in the classroom. We want to make sure that our students are getting applied real world learning experience through internships, clinical rotations, community service,” said Dr. Martin Roth.
Roth was selected as the 26th UC president earlier this month. He replaces Edwin Welch when he retires next June.
Roth currently serves as the dean of the Barney School of Business at the University of Hartford.
He was responsible for increasing enrollments, program innovation and corporate partnerships.
Roth said he was interested in UC because of what the school represents.
“The mission of the school — being very focused on helping students be prepared for professional work, community service — I think that’s critically important in today’s higher education landscape,” he said.
Dr. Welch will retire on June 30, 2018, but Roth said he will remain on campus to assist with his transition.
“Rather than him retiring and leaving town, he’ll be in town and available to help introduce me to the key people and organizations in the Charleston area. I really look forward to taking advantage of those opportunities,” he said.
Roth starts the new job July 1.