Faculty echo sentiments during forum for next provost

Faculty and staff members who participated in an open discussion about the qualities of the university's next provost were somewhat unified in their comments.

They would like the next provost to understand Grand Valley's unique history, be a strong advocate for student success and be mindful of upcoming challenges. 

"We want someone who preserves the past and will pioneer toward the future," said Eric Kunnen, associate director of eLearning and emerging technologies.

The first of two open forums led by search firm consultants was held September 13 in the Kirkhof Center; a second meeting is set for Wednesday, September 14, from 9-10 a.m. in the Seidman Center, first floor Forum. Provost Gayle R. Davis announced in July that she will retire next summer.

Daniel Rodas and Greg Esposito, consultants from the educational and executive search firm Isaacson, Miller, guided participants through a series of questions about the role and what challenges a provost will face in the next five years. Rodas said comments will assist with writing a detailed position description when candidate recruitment begins.

Charles Pazdernik, professor of Classics, said he would ask candidates about their approach to higher education challenges, like decreases in state funding and a decreasing pool of Michigan high school graduates.

"Crises like these present opportunities for an administrator to motivate change," Pazdernik said.

Comments about maintaining the integrity of a liberal arts education were brought forth by a number of people, and Paul Leidig, director of the School of Computing and Information Systems, wanted someone who would balance that with professional schools.

Staff members from Student Services spoke about continuing and strengthening the partnerships built between academic and student services units.

Kate Harmon, director of Campus Recreation, said she would like to see candidates who are aware of the challenges today's students face. "Students are coming in with more anxiety and that creates a lot of pressure on faculty and staff," Harmon said. "I hope candidates would understand what type of student is coming to college."

Marlene Kowalski-Braun, associate vice provost for student affairs and inclusion, spoke about the qualities valued in a provost who will play a key role in the university's strategic plan, which continues through 2021.

"I would like to see candidates who have demonstrated advocacy on behalf of students of color," Kowalski-Braun said. "We have lofty goals in our strategic plan about diversity for students and for faculty and staff."