I am very excited to be the new chancellor of MSU-Northern and look forward to the positions challenges and opportunities. Considering the competition it is an honor the committee supported my candidacy and I plan to commit all my energy to the continual development of the whole university in meeting its mission.
I will work tirelessly with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the community at larger to insure and enhance Northern’s educational offerings, its reputation and educational standing. I will dedicate time and effort in making Northern more affordable and accessible to all who desire a quality and diverse educational experience.
During my first few months at Northern I plan to visit as many people as possible. I have not had the privilege of being part of Northern’s incredible history so I plan to listen to our alumni, government and business leaders, tribal elders, faculty and staff to get a better understanding of our past and to use that information to formulate a vision and a strategy for the future. However, I also feel it is imperative to start now to create plans that will increase enrollment for 2010, identify and implement best practice strategies for retention, and to further the development of advancing unique partnerships with business and industry.