CMU’s 2025 Assessment Retreat showcases innovation and inspires faculty

Central Michigan University recently held its 2025 Assessment Retreat, bringing together faculty and staff to focus on improving how students learn and succeed. With the theme Engaging in Meaningful Continuous Improvement, the event was packed with fresh ideas, success stories, and inspiration for taking student education to the next level.

The retreat’s must-see session was led by InSciTE Director Dr. Wiline Pangle and CSE Director of Assessment and Accreditation Dr. Jenny Laubenthal, who shared the story of CMU’s cutting-edge InSciTE Program (Integration of Science, Technology, and Engineering).

If you haven’t heard about InSciTE yet, it’s a 15-credit certificate program that’s been turning heads since it launched in 2023. Designed to help students tackle big STEM challenges, the program focuses on real-world skills like teamwork, communication, and time management. The best part? Students get to shape the course content based on what they’re passionate about, creating a unique learning experience tailored to their goals.

Drs. Pangle and Laubenthal gave an inside look at how InSciTE works and shared two years of data showing how the program’s hands-on, inclusive approach is making a difference. Their session was a great example of how CMU is leading the way in creating innovative programs that help students thrive.

The retreat wasn’t just about sharing ideas—it was about showing how CMU is committed to helping students and faculty succeed. Events like this highlight the university’s focus on continuous improvement and its dedication to creating programs like InSciTE that prepare students for bright futures.

Learn more about the InSciTE program and other exciting initiatives by visiting the InSciTE website.