In our meetings with community leaders, the team heard appreciation and loud praise for the services rendered to the broader community by the University as a whole, as well as by countless students, faculty, and staff. In addition, it was stressed that the value of the University as an intellectual and cultural center for the region could not be overstated.

     The chapter in the Self Study devoted to Community Service focused on serving adult learners through the Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) program, as well as on numerous other outreach programs provided through various Centers and Institutes. For example, in an effort to promote graduation rates in the Lancaster public schools and to promote the academic achievement of African-American and Hispanic students, the Lancaster Partnership with the schools has been formed. The University also sponsors a number of other programs that support the public schools, the local business community, religious organizations, and volunteer organizations. These programs and partnerships are a "win-win situation," increasing the pool of potential students for Millersville and increasing the flow of resources from the campus to the community. We have already commented in an earlier section of our report dealing with new academic programs that appropriate continuing education can serve as one means whereby the University can respond efficiently to emerging regional needs.

     We commend the University for its many outreach efforts. We also recognize that as the University refines its planning and expands its assessment efforts, it will have the opportunity to insure that its external initiatives support the future direction of the campus and that its limited resources are expended efficiently and effectively.