I view a university as a complex organization with the responsibility of creating and sharing new knowledge with others. At Wichita State University our strengths are best described as providing a quality learning environment inside and outside the classroom. Our students learn academically as well as personally and socially.
Shirley and I met when I tried to sell her a pair of shoes when we were both 17 years of age. I did not sell her the shoes, but I did much better. We've been married for over 40 years and continue to enjoy being together in work and play.
Charles Koch Arena, the James Sutherland Garvey International Center and the planned Welcome Center and Research Center represent efforts to enhance the environment for current and future students. In addition, we are trying to create a positive environment for all who work within the university setting. Improved facilities and upkeep of the university are critical for the perception of a quality institution functioning at a high level. All of these improvements on our campus are due to the efforts of many.
When Shirley and I first arrived on campus, we quickly became aware of the positive attitude among students, faculty, staff and alumni of supporting one another and responding positively to the needs of others. I am convinced this is an outstanding attribute of Wichita State.
My favorite subject in grade school was mathematics; in high school, mathematics; and in college, statistics.
At this time in my life, there are two things I would like to learn more about. These two things are the ability to learn other languages and the ability to play the piano.
I believe that imagination and vision are necessary for a person functioning in a leadership role. Individuals expect you to establish a vision based on your experience in the environment in which you work. I think this is especially true at WSU since the general entrepreneurial spirit is always present among our alumni, faculty, staff and students.
I want individuals to know I respect them and will make every effort to help them achieve higher goals.
I have a tremendous amount of respect for the popular writing of Gerald Graham of our Barton School of Business. I take every opportunity to read his articles because they are insightful, brief and humane. I am not a student of administrative or leadership style but appreciate Professor Graham's approach to being a leader.
The Beatles song I most enjoyed listening to was 'I Wanna Hold Your Hand.'
At the present time, higher education in the United States continues to face critical decisions in meeting the public need for quality education and research. In general, the public is satisfied with postsecondary education but does not believe it merits additional funds to enhance existing programs. As a result of this general attitude, it has been necessary to reallocate dollars to support programs students wish to take and programs we have the expertise to deliver. The current economic conditions have added to this problem because state legislatures are unable to provide needed funds to keep up with higher education costs even in the most difficult times. Because of this, there has been an increase in tuition that is larger than what has occurred in the past several decades.
When Shirley and I have the opportunity to relax, we enjoy being together with no specific task to accomplish. Another form of relaxation is being with our children and grandchildren in a family setting.
If I could save only five books for future generations, I would save the Bible, the Koran, the Book of Mormon, Robert’s Rules of Order and War and Peace.
I believe it is absolutely critical on a university campus, where we have outstanding teaching, research and scholarship, to maintain a respect for intellectual and creative properties.We should honor the rights of individuals who have developed new ideas, procedures and sounds.
Although our mission may change, I hope our university will always be well-defined and able to deliver a quality education within the resources available.
I learn from students on a daily basis. Students always have fresh perspectives and have the ability to ask insightful questions that cause everyone to think. Students enhance creativity. They also make me aware of the fact that I am in a profession where I have the opportunity to impact not only them but the future of our world.
I think the fact that would surprise you most is that as a young man I was frail and had hair. I enjoy watching people in any setting — and also enjoy talking like Donald Duck with my grandchildren.
