( Bluefield)—Dr. Tracey Anderson’s interest in the teaching/learning dynamic and her smaller town West Virginia roots influenced her decision to become Bluefield State College’s Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness. Her goal—to help BSC become a better student of itself.

“I’m excited about the opportunity,” the Cameron High and WVU graduate said, shortly after assuming the duties of her position at BSC. “In the educational leadership doctoral program at WVU, I enjoyed assessment and curriculum and development courses because they provided strategies for assisting faculty to help students learn.”

Anderson’s career path included a period as a public school teacher—an experience that augmented her appreciation of the teaching/learning dynamic. “After graduating from WVU with a pair of baccalaureate degrees (English and Secondary Education), my husband (Michael) and I moved to the Frederick, MD area and I became a substitute teacher,” she explained. “That time in the classroom strengthened my appreciation for the challenges of teaching effectively.”

Following the birth of their daughter, McKenna, in 1996, the Andersons returned to Morgantown. “A few years later, I obtained a job in the School of Nursing, then discovered the University’s tuition waiver program (that helps defray tuition costs for qualifying employees who wish to continue their education),” she continued. Anderson received a master’s degree in Educational Leadership in 2001, then earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership earlier this year.

Nationwide, the demand for institutional researchers exceeds the supply, but Anderson’s focus was on the Mountain State. “I wanted to stay in West Virginia and help my state,” she said. “This opportunity at Bluefield State College is really a good fit. I’m from a small town, much like Bluefield. This is a wonderful area—a great place for us to raise our daughter.”

Anderson also appreciates the challenges of her position. “Initially, I’ll be looking at the College’s strategic plan, identifying areas where revisions and adjustments are needed,” she explained. “I’ll also be working with the College’s assessment committee to achieve goals for assessing students’ academic outcomes.”

“My husband has told me that my work is my hobby, and that’s probably true,” the new BSC cabinet member stated. “I hope to help Bluefield State College get where it wants to go—to meet its objectives and achieve its goals.”

August 2, 2006