July 25, 2013

While many diverse and opposing opinions about the new chancellor arose during two forums this past week, one quality held strong: the new chancellor must have a strong passion for MU.

Two public forums were held July 22 and 25 with the intention of allowing MU’s community to discuss what they believe are the essential characteristics for the future chancellor.

UM System President Tim Wolfe opened both meetings with brief statements regarding the expectations for the new chancellor as well as the process that the school will take in order to find the right one.

With about 35,000 students and 13,000 employees being affected by this change, a decision will not be made lightly.

Although there is hope for a new chancellor by the end of this upcoming fall semester, Wolfe and the rest of the committee promise they “will not sacrifice quality for time.”

Pradeep Sahota, professor and chairman of neurology in the School of Medicine, strongly believes sought after passion in a new chancellor should not be reflected in one’s personality. Sahota suggested that determining success based on character would hold us back.

“Evaluation should be based on achievement, productivity, leadership,” Sahota said. “Not because I think he/she is nice”

By keeping a personal distance, Sahota said he believes the new chancellor can take on a stronger, more reliable role at the university, where they will not be nervous to make the tough decisions.

Missouri Student Association President Nick Droege said students want to see a chancellor who will be accessible and interactive and who will advocate on behalf of the students. He also expressed a desire for a chancellor who will retain students and improve the success level during the freshman year.

Droege said he believes Chancellor Brady Deaton adequately maintained resources for students on campus and believes that is something that should be upheld and improved in the future.

Some MU staff members had similar views coming into these forums. A concern regarding respect for faculty authority on the topic of curriculum was brought up multiple times.

Engineering Professor Galen Suppes said the chancellor should respect faculty government and authority. Many members of staff communally expressed their desire for a chancellor who shares a mutual respect and understanding with them.

This process brings great excitement for MU as well as great expectations.

These public meetings brought to light the seriousness in finding a fitting chancellor for the university. One professor became emotional while stating her past struggles in her position. She pleaded that the committee focus on the candidates’ personality and not be swayed but initial impressions, asking them to find a chancellor who portrays honesty and integrity before anything else.

Names of chancellor candidates will not be released until a decision is made.

The names of search committee members, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and retirees will be released later this week. There will be periodic updates as well as statements from Wolfe on the [search’s website](www.umsystem.edu/muchancellor_search).

It has been two decades since the last search for a MU chancellor. Wolfe and the UM System expressed that this is an exciting time for the university with big opportunities ahead.

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