Dr. Robyn Walter, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer at 91视频, holding the 2024 MCCA Administrative/Professional Award, standing alongside 91视频 President Dr. Jon Bauer at the MCCA 60th Convention and Trade Show in Branson, with an "MCCA" backdrop behind them.

Dr. Robyn Walter Honored with MCCA Award for Vision and Dedication

November 25, 2024 | Campus News

Dr. Robyn Walter鈥檚 leadership and dedication to academic excellence have been instrumental in fostering partnerships, driving innovation, and improving student success at 91视频.

Walter, Vice President of Academic Affairs, was recognized for her contributions to advancing the College鈥檚 mission with the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) Administrative/Professional Award during the MCCA 60th Convention and Trade Show in Branson on Nov. 14.

Dr. Robyn Walter, wearing a patterned blouse and a conference name badge, smiles and stands to acknowledge applause after being announced as the recipient of the Administrative Professional Award during the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) convention. The background shows a room filled with attendees seated at tables.

Each year, the MCCA Annual Recognition and Excellence Awards program acknowledges individuals and institutions that have set the standard of excellence during the year.

Walter was honored for her leadership in transformative initiatives at 91视频, including the development of a consortium-based Respiratory Therapy program in collaboration with four other Missouri community colleges. Walter and her team successfully achieved program accreditation and secured a $5.5 million federal training grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.

鈥淎s 91视频 and others identified respiratory care as a critical need, she refused to take no for an answer when it came to developing a consortium-based solution,鈥� said 91视频 President Dr. Jon Bauer. 鈥淗er singular efforts led to the decision by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care to change its stance and consider approval of a consortium-based program.鈥�

In 2023, 91视频 was awarded a $2.1 million Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant from the U.S. Department of Education to improve retention, persistence, and completion rates, particularly among underrepresented student populations.

鈥淒r. Walter led this grant initiative and, despite the highly competitive nature of this program, was able to deliver with approval on our first submission,鈥� Bauer said. 鈥淭hroughout that process, I witnessed again her ability to lead others, delegate appropriately, empower those involved, and maintain focus on the overarching goal.鈥�

In addition to her institutional impact, Walter serves as chair of the MCCA Council of Chief Academic Officers and collaborates with statewide groups addressing issues such as transfer and articulation, and adult learners.

Walter was selected for a two-year Chief Academic Officers cohort sponsored by the Gardner Institute, bringing a national perspective to her work in Missouri.

鈥淪he became a leader in this cohort and has brought this national perspective back to Missouri,鈥� Bauer added.

Walter鈥檚 contributions also include serving as a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, a board member for the Missouri College Access Network (MOCAN), and a mentor to health careers faculty and staff. With over 20 years of experience in the community college sector, her influence is felt both locally and nationally.

鈥淪he is active in the community both professionally and personally. With over 20 years of experience in the community college sector, she is well qualified and richly deserving of this recognition,鈥� Bauer further commented.