In the coming months, The University System of Ohio will be the focus of important conversations here and at public institutions across the state. The development of a coordinated system of higher education for Ohio presents our university with a significant opportunity.
We have invited Chancellor Eric Fingerhut to campus to explain the important changes resulting from an executive order issued by Governor Ted Strickland and share his vision for The University System of Ohio. I invite you to join us for his address at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26, in the Margaret M. Walter Hall Rotunda.
Chancellor Fingerhut is working toward completing a draft master plan for the system by the end of the calendar year. A formal plan is due to the Ohio General Assembly by March 31, 2008. The master plan will include a focus on quality, affordability, access and success, economic development, accountability, and regional campuses.
I and the other presidents have been urged to ask our campuses to refine our identities and to clarify our centers of excellence. I have asked Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl and the academic deans to take the lead on this important work, which they already have begun. For example, College of Arts and Sciences Dean Ben Ogles is leading the Task Force on Centers of Excellence in Graduate and Professional Education. Dr. Krendl has asked the Vision OHIO Executive Implementation Team to re-visit our mission statement, and I have formed a committee to gather feedback on the draft five-year plan for implementing our academic goals. We are undertaking important work; and we all need to participate in this important process.
I hope you will join us for Chancellor Fingerhut’s speech on Wednesday, September 26!
Cordially,
Roderick J. McDavis President
Office of the President Cutler Hall 108, Athens, Ohio 45701 Tel: 740.593.1804
