The University of Idaho will have a new president within the next few weeks, and for some, the change may feel meaningless or even superficial.
For others — those who have actively participated in the ongoing open forums and the screening process — the change could be met with open arms or even hostility.
Whether or not one agrees with the final decision, student awareness and involvement will drive the university’s — and the new president’s — future success.
There is plenty of room for disagreement. The five candidates come from a variety of backgrounds and represent different directions for UI’s future.
Christopher Callahan. Diane Chase. Scott Green. Elizabeth Spiller. Paul Tikalsky. These names might not resonate with all students just yet, but they should.
With three of the five candidate forums already complete, there are fewer and fewer opportunities to ask questions and speak up.
Feedback forms are available on the university’s presidential search page, allowing students the opportunity to directly voice any thoughts and concerns they may have about the individual candidates.
While Chuck Staben has been heavily critiqued by students — primarily during the last year — it can be difficult to find voiced solutions.
Nothing is more important than figuring out what you want to gain from your time at a university. Without a clear picture and path forward, it’s difficult to remain involved. Part of shaping your own future comes from helping to shape the future of the ever-changing university.
From here, the next step is figuring out which presidential candidate appeals to you directly.
Over the years, Idaho has lacked presidential longevity. Since 1989, the average length of time a president has held office is five years. Prior to the ‘80s, this number was consistently in the double digits.
Hopefully UI’s next president can bring not only a semblance of longevity, but also consistency to the administration.
A fairly substantial amount of UI students may be graduating this spring, and of that number, many are likely to leave Moscow altogether.
So why should these soon-to-be alumni care?
It can be difficult to stay invested when the finish line is so close.
Yet, for many students, the university is a home away from home. Even for those who haven’t spent the bulk of their college years in Moscow, they have assuredly left their individual mark on UI’s history.
It’s our responsibility to carry on UI’s legacy and ensure future students can reach similar success.
Don’t let go of this piece of your life completely. Rather, ensure there remains a stable foundation for generations of students still to come.
— Editorial Board