Campus
reveals thoughts on presidential candidates
By Starr T. Balmer
Online Forty-Niner
City Editor
Cal State Long Beach students gave mixed reactions Tuesday about the four presidential
candidates who have been nominated to replace President Robert C. Maxson. Some
say they hoped the next president would follow Maxson’s footsteps, while
others knew nothing about the presidential candidates.
“
I hope we have a president who understands what it means to be a faculty
member,” said Norma Chinchilla, sociology department chairwoman and women’s
studies professor. She said the workload for faculty members can be demanding
and anticipates the next president understanding faculty concerns.
Chinchilla also noticed the absence of women in the choices.
“
I think it is unfortunate because I’m sure there are capable women,” she
said.
“ We need women at the higher leadership level.”
Additionally, she said she hopes the next president will understand the importance
of diversity.
“
I’m looking for a visible president,” said Valerie Bordeaux, director
of University Outreach and School Relations. “I’m looking for a person
who has demonstrated leadership ability, who is committed to placing students
first and has strong communication skills.”
As an administrator who works heavily with the President’s Scholars Program
and University Outreach, Bordeaux questioned what position the next president
would take in the program, as well as in university outreach. She said she wants “a
person who understands and demonstrates partnership.”
“ What will be his role in communicating the excellence of the university
to school
and college personnel who send students to us?”
Cara Eshleman, vice chairwoman of Long Beach College Republicans, said CSULB
provost Gary Reichard would be the most qualified candidate.
“ From what I read, he knew the campus and campus politics.”
She also said she wants someone who cares for students, and who is not there
just for his career.
“
I want someone who listens to what students want,” she said.
Junior construction engineering management major Bismarck Ramirez said he is
certain the presidential candidate chosen will meet the qualifications needed
to lead CSULB.
“
I’m interested in hearing their background,” he said. “I’m
sure the candidates are well-qualified.”
Freshman English major Elizabeth Crepps said she did not know about the candidates
and Maxson personally, she has seen Maxson across campus and described him as
an “exuberant” person and said she hopes the chosen candidate will
support students.
Lori Barranza, an undeclared freshman, also did not know about the four presidential
candidates, but she anticipates the candidate chosen will be “similar to
the president to carry on his legacy.”
Presidential candidates will be available for questions during open forums on
campus at the Horn Center next week, and the next president will be chosen by
the end of October.
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