Regional Councils

During the 2001-2002 academic year, two Regional Councils were established at Calvin: the North Central Regional Council and Midwest Regional Council. The first of ten advisory boards the college plans to inaugurate in the coming few years, these Regional Councils represent designated geographical areas as determined by alumni and student concentration.

Council members are invited by the president and the chair of the Board of Trustees to serve as advisors—providing counsel and expertise to Calvin's administration drawn from personal and or professional achievement that contribute to the advancement of the college and the work of the Councils. The members convene on campus twice each academic year to review departments, programs, and special activities, and to serve as ambassadors— promoting the college and its mission within their home region.

The primary purpose of the Regional Councils is to carry out, on an ongoing basis, external review and recommendation on the programs and potential of Calvin. Periodically the Regional Councils will present reports to the Board of Trustees based on the overview and observations of the work of the college.

The Development Committees of Calvin's Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Board reviewed initial plans for the Regional Councils. The committees critiqued proposals for the Councils and offered helpful ideas and advice regarding the establishment of the Regional Council program. Their ongoing review of this program supports the Regional Councils and assists the administration's important Council work.

In his opening presentation to Regional Council members, President Byker said, "It is my hope that the Regional Councils will help us look at ourselves more critically, serve as a 'sounding board' allowing us to debate new ideas, provide an external/regional perspective, and offer advice, expertise and valuable criticism."

Midwest Regional Council

Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin

East Coast Regional Council

Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia