Western Carolina University Chancellor David O. Belcher has appointed a 36-member committee that will help guide the university’s direction over the next decade.

The group includes representatives from the university community and from the broader external community.

“Because they are drawn from all of the university’s major stakeholder groups, the members of the 2020 Commission each bring a unique set of perspectives, expertise and knowledge to the table,” said Melissa Wargo committee chair. “These individuals will play a vital role in ensuring that Western Carolina’s new strategic plan is based upon a shared vision of the university’s future.”

The 2020 Commission will hold its inaugural meeting Wednesday, Sept. 7. The nearly yearlong process will include opportunities for participation, including separate roundtable discussions for faculty, staff and students, ongoing online input and hearings on and off campus.