Wayne State College is just over a month and a half into the school year and Dr. Marysz Rames expanded on a few subjects.
President Rames highlighted Homecoming was an opportunity for alumni to come home and reengage with students on campus.
"An opportunity for our students to celebrate where we are in this semester and engage with our alumni," said Dr. Rames. "We have amazing alumni that have done phenomenal things in their profession and their community. We have students that aspire to do the same."
President Rames first served as interim president starting Aug. 15, 2014 until being appointed as the 13th president of WSC on June 18, 2015.
Stearns Hall, the newest residence hall opened its doors during the spring 2025 semester filling with partial capacity before being at full occupancy with a waiting list for 276 new and returning students earlier this fall.
Students have enjoyed the outdoor space during the nice fall weather.
"We did a lot right because of the Student Affair staff under the leadership of CD Douglas (VP Student Affairs) really took the time to listen to students on what they wanted and built to their needs," said Dr. Rames.
Wayne State College is at 94% occupancy at all residence halls across the board.
At the beginning and end of the day, Wayne State College is an academic institution.
WSC is excited about the Rural Health Pathway from Wayne State into the UNMC Northern Division in Norfolk. This agreement has been on-going as UNMC has now been able to secure additional slots for the BSN to fill the shortage of nursing.
"We have added some certificate programs through our business school for those who want to take credentials to a new level in leadership and human resources," said Dr. Rames. "In Arts and Humanities they have added some interesting new minors into some of their programs."
Wayne State College looks to the future on new academic programs to support student-interest and support the region.
Along with additional construction updates on campus athletic and recreation, President Rames said Brandenburg (previous education building) will be designed to be a student success center for students looking to attend Wayne State College.
"Admissions, financial aid, registration and records but it would also have our TRIO student support services, our career services all in one place," Dr. Rames mentioned. "So we know that one of the reasons that students aren't always successful when they come to any institution is they don't access their resources."
The Peterson family was also honored as the first 'Family of the Year'.
"We've been talking about adding that award to our suite of kinds of honors that we make at Wayne State College," Dr. Rames added. "Under the direction of the Foundation, they've moved that forward."
Wayne State College will be off for mid-term break Oct. 13-14 with fall break being Nov. 26-28.
"We really take our mission seriously on serving, our students being a gateway of opportunity for so many students and then serving our region," Dr. Rames added. "It's just been a real pleasure to be able to work with these phenomenal leaders and faculty at Wayne State College and just really impressed with the work that they do every day. As always, Go Cats!"
The December 2025 Commencement ceremonies will be on Friday, Dec. 12.
