B U S I N E S S + C U LT U R E 35 While the listening sessions were fully engaged, Carvajal began to notice a reoccurring theme focused on VSU’s need to have a shared vision. “We continued to hear that people want Valdosta State to be a leader in advancing the region’s progress and prosperity in the areas of economic development, education, and healthcare,” Carvajal said. “As the region’s flagship institution, we must help our region to prosper.” Carvajal said Valdosta State not only has the responsibility but also the resources to assist. “We have smart people here, and we want them to focus on research and activities that answer some of the big questions that challenge our region,” Carvajal said. “There are many who have been doing this, but we think we can now help in a more intentional and focused way.” As a comprehensive university, Valdosta State’s faculty can provide research and expertise in addressing challenges that impact South Georgia. “Clearly we have other institutions of higher education within the region that we work with,” he said. “We understand that we have great partners throughout South Georgia that are already focused on economic development. Now we want to expand that work and provide resources.” Valdosta State recently adopted a vision that identifies the university as a catalyst for regional comprehensive progress. “We pulled a group of about 50 people together, who were representatives from across the institution, to develop our vision statement,” Carvajal said. “They met for several months and officially adopted a vision for the institution that will solidify us as connecting the health of the region that we serve with the health of the university.” Valdosta State’s new vision incorporates its responsibility not only in the area of academics but also in economic and community development, healthcare, education, and the arts. During his formal investiture ceremony on Oct. 27, Carvajal announced to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the community that it is time for