Advancing Westfield State University

 In Blog

Janet Garcia has been the director of Marketing and Communication at Westfield State University for 10 years. Responsible for the outward face of the University, she oversees its presence on social media, website, advertisements and print publications. Janet believes, however, that the most rewarding part of her work is watching the institution—and its students—grow.

Janet is also a Westfield State alumna. After earning a bachelor’s degree in art with a concentration in graphic design, and a minor in English in 1983, Janet worked as a photographer for about 10 years, followed by a stint as a paralegal and at Elms College in Chicopee in the paralegal department and continuing education.

It was at Elms that she was approached by a dean at Westfield State to work in continuing education; Janet jumped at the chance to return to her alma mater, and the challenges and rewards have not disappointed her. That was in 1998. Janet’s title was Lifelong Learning Director then. She has also served as marketing director for the Division of Graduate and Continuing Education.

“I really enjoy watching the students grow and seeing the end result of hard work,” Janet says. “There isn’t a dull day. Every day is different, and working in higher education is a great atmosphere.”

Janet and Beetle Press have collaborated for many years as Janet oversees the publication of the University’s alumni magazine, Focus, for which Janice has served as editor since 2002. Janice works with Janet, and others on campus, to brainstorm a new magazine’s content, and then Janice makes assignments to writers, edits copy and works in partnership with the on-campus designer and Janet on each issue.

Janet says that Westfield State’s relationship with Beetle Press is a positive one that is both professional and friendly.

In addition to watching students come, study, grow and graduate with a wide variety of achievements, there have been many new campus developments since Janet arrived. Recently, the new Science Center is being constructed—the first academic building to be developed in 40 years—and a new Visual Arts Center is on the horizon. New programs have also been nurtured, such as the new nursing program and a Physicians Program that is in the works.

Janet believes that Westfield State is unique because it provides vast and rewarding opportunities to students, ranging from undergraduate research challenges to activities such as clubs, athletics, arts and theater. Students can participate in activities to explore their different interests as well as get involved in occupational opportunities, such as internships.

Westfield State is a welcoming campus, in Janet’s opinion. The University currently has 5,000 undergraduates and the relationships between students and faculty are close and supportive. “The teachers are committed to students,” she says. “They spend a lot of time outside class, nurturing students’ talents and helping them explore and satisfy their curiosity.”

Recommended Posts

Leave a Comment

Contact Us

We're not around right now. But you can send us an email and we'll get back to you, asap.

Not readable? Change text.