Article Contributed on: 2/23/2008 12:25:08 PM
Bruce Benson is appointed as CU's President. I have no strong feelings for or against this appointment. Many of us who did not come out of this university view it as a curious mix of incredibly great programs and professors like Tom Cech; but also as a party school.
The integrity, and stature of Hank Brown will be a hard act for anyone to follow. Apparently, the majority of the faculty and students were against the appointment of Benson or anyone with such slim academic credentials (quite understandably); but were probably mainly swayed by political considerations (somewhat understandably).
Many seemed to support Ward Churchill during his difficulties, and perhaps they would have preferred him and his academic credentials. Of course, someone like him might have increased alienation toward the school, and probably a decrease in government and private funding would have resulted. But, with the faculty and students philosophically committed to such a course they would clearly be willing to increase student tuition and fees and cut academic programs and personnel to allow for this. For those who might not be too bright; that last sentence did involve some sarcasm.
One can hope that those in the university who opposed the installation are willing to give co-operation, understanding and effort to help Benson increase the stature and funding. And, that Benson will give the same. But, one can't be sure that that will occur, anymore than that one could depend upon James Dobson of Focus on the Family doing the same with those who don't completely agree with him.
We need Men of Good Will, and they seem scarce,
Del Knudson