The focus of this presentation is to discuss our institutional story of mission, action, and impact that centers application of strategic pillars, academic goals, and assessment that guides our institutional data culture of continuous improvement of programs in support of student success. Speakers will discuss the institutional context, a higher education institution in the Western Pacific region, and highlight institutional demographic data of the diverse student population we serve – locally and from our surrounding Pacific Islands and broader contexts. Speakers will extend conversation noting specific examples of our strategic pillars, academic goals, and assessment processes that supports academic plans, resource needs, and action. Further, the speakers will  illuminate examples of continuous improvement of programs, innovative curriculum/program development, and relevant approaches to teaching and learning that support our students’ academic journey. Speakers will invite session attendees to engage in reflective conversation on the information presented and how it informs continuous improvements and actions addressing the current context of higher education and needs of our/your students.

Kathrine Gutierrez, Associate Professor, University of Guam
Marlena Pangelinan, Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness, University of Guam

As San José State University prepares for its 2028 WSCUC reaffirmation, Academic Affairs and Student Affairs have partnered to align accreditation engagement with the university’s Transformation 2030 strategic plan, specifically focusing on success for all students and inclusive excellence in a future-ready campus culture. This collaboration reframes accreditation as a student-centered, learning-focused process rather than a compliance exercise. Through proposed initiatives such reflection prompts, pop-up talks, and storytelling campaigns, SJSU envisions our students as empowered co-creators of institutional quality and continuous improvement. By embedding reflection and assessment practices across curricular and co-curricular spaces, SJSU aims to create spaces where every student feels seen, included, and empowered to share ownership in the university’s growth and success. Presenters will share practical, low-cost tools for fostering authentic student voice and engagement in accreditation processes that any institution can adapt to advance its own strategic goals.

Priya Raman, Director of Academic and Institutional Effectiveness, San José State University
Lezlee Matthews, Director of Co-Curricular Learning, Educational Equity and Assessment, San Jose State University