President meets CGPS students

Developing the College of Graduate and Professional Studies is one of the key initiatives Lt. Gen. John Rosa, president of The Citadel, identified in his inaugural address last spring. Recently he met with CGPS students to tell them he understands the challenges that working adults in continuing their education. 

During the Meet and Greet, Gen. Rosa listened to CGPS students discuss their experiences at The Citadel.

He speaks from experience. The Citadel's president earned a graduate degree while balancing the demands of an Air Force career and the needs of a young family.  

The CGPS Meet and Greet allowed Rosa to tell CGPS students about some of the initiatives under way at the college and encourage them to voice their needs through the newly formed student government association.

"I know one of the major complaints you have is parking," Rosa said. "It's a problem for everyone." He noted that the college has taken some steps to improve the parking situation for CGPS students such as allowing them temporary parking passes during the day when they are doing research on campus. Also, graduate assistants are now able to park on campus.

The college is seeking a long term solution to the problem of parking, Rosa said. A consultant has recently completed a parking study that explores several solutions including building a parking garage to address the ever-expanding demand for parking spaces. Results of that study are currently under review by the administration.

Other steps The Citadel has taken to better accommodate CGPS students include expanding the hours at the Daniel Library and providing computer support through a help desk at the library during the weekend.

Still, more needs to be done, the president acknowledged. He said that CGPS students need a place to call home on campus and said that plans to rebuild Capers Hall in the future will give more options for a CGPS center. Rosa also said that there is a pressing need for scholarship money for CGPS students.

"You add a great deal to The Citadel and I appreciate the fact that you have chosen CGPS to continue your education," Rosa said. "I hope you will work through the student government association or other venues to let us know how we can better serve you."