 "Photo: Daniel Flores/The Pan American")
A new era will dawn on Jan. 1, 2010.
Robert Nelsen will spend his first day as the university’s eighth president as the new year begins, and those of us who keep a close ear to the heart of the university know change is encroaching from all directions.
Nelsen will usher in new academic and administrative policy, something that is routine during such transitions. But change is looming from all funding sources as well. It is already known that the state has significantly trimmed higher education funding. With the economy still struggling, chances are that future federal money will be sparse. This means lean times, and the new UTPA president will helping the adjusting of the university to those circumstances.
However, faculty, staff and students should caution Nelsen to be very conscious of his decisions so that these do not infringe upon the academic integrity of the institution. The big choices should be made from a paradigm of progress in academic quality, when at all possible; economic expediency should not trump the university’s traditional mission.
Though there are many points of caution, this pivotal moment in the university’s history must also be seen as an opportunity for all. It’s a time for students, faculty and staff to express ideas about how to bring about progress for UTPA. People cannot sit and watch this moment float into the history books, and frankly, apathy has too strong of a grip on the university right now. This institution of higher learning is supposed to enable students to become productive citizens of the great American society. However, when a public event occurs, an almost infinitesimal number of people turn out to lend their thoughts.
If this apathy is left unchecked it will become corrosive to the American tradition: democracy. If few students get up and voice their opinions on tuition and fee increases, then it becomes all too easy for someone in power to make a decision without having to consider feedback from all quarters.
One part of shared governance is the strong need for leaders to listen to students, faculty and staff. From the leaders in student government to the deans and vice presidents, all the way up to the president: they must ensure that all university constituencies know they’re being heard.
As the university approaches new and significant decisions, the various constituencies must educate themselves so that they may understand the decisions in context and have a full grasp. Asking for a voice is one thing; using it is another, and the Bronc community could use some improvement there.
To that end, Nelsen must take steps to foment interest and action by faculty, staff, and especially students. As he sits in his office for the first time and looks out the window for the first time, he will see Edinburg, McAllen and Pharr: the heart of the Valley. In his hands will not only lie the future of UTPA, but also the responsibility of ensuring the intellectual, economic and cultural progress of an area that has always desperately needed it.
In addition, during that time the many issues of the university will try to take his ear. The ever-present situations of parking and classroom space are likely to be on the list. In addition, academic and financial issues are likely to pop up, as they already have. Finances, or lack thereof, will likely dominate the university’s political landscape for at least the near future, given the aforementioned troubles.
It’s imperative Nelsen fight for the funding this university desperately needs. This is an opportunity for him to step up and be a strong advocate for the Valley people.
As the sun sets on Charles Sorber’s tenure here, I am abundantly grateful (both as a student and member of the press) for his honesty and transparent style. His willingness to meet on short notice about urgent matters, along with his direct answers, are a testament to his press-friendly character.
As the dawn emerges on the horizon, I urge President-designate Nelsen to continue the spirit of transparency, encourage involvement in shared governance, and be a powerful advocate for the university.
To the university community: take advantage of this opportunity for progress; get active. To Interim President Sorber, I wish you well as you reenter retirement. To President-designate Nelsen: Good luck!
Go Broncs!
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