The Imperative of Excellence

The Provost's 2003 State of Academics Address (cont'd)

Drexel University
March 11, 2003

page 7

     Since I have continued to state an emphasis on graduate programs, research, and research funding, let me address squarely what may be a misunderstanding among some. Some would say that I expect external research funding for all faculty regardless of field. That is not the case. I expect significant funding for faculty in some fields, some funding for faculty in many fields, and no funding for others. Again, my point is that we must reflect national norms, not historical local norms. In this way we will move into the top tier. Moreover, we will be able to use the success of the scholars in the fundable areas to support research and scholarship in those fields that are not fundable. That's part of being a part of a university.

     During the next five years we will see an increase in the size of our student body but not at the same rate as we saw during the last strategic period. The best students challenge and attract the best faculty. As we see the increase in size and quality of the student body we must also see an improvement in our instructional and research facilities. Our faculty size must also continue to grow, and just as we must keep the starting salaries of our new faculty in line with the marketplace, we must also address salary compression at the upper ranks. It will be a priority, but based on performance according to national standards of teaching load, quality of performance, and research funding where applicable.

     Finally, I mentioned instructional and research facilities. The LeBow College of Business has new facilities and the faculty in engineering, including biomedical engineering, will soon benefit from the new Bassone Research Enterprise Building. We must address facilities in Arts and Sciences next.

     I close with a comment on my concept of shared governance. To make my points, I take you back to Mark Hopkins' log. Shared governance does not mean that the elected representation or the at-large body of the faculty shares in the administration of the business of the university. Neither the Senate nor the faculty at-large should worry about paying a residual to the timber company. Nor should the university administration concern itself with the specific content of the intellectual discourse that takes place on the log - as long as it is of a standard that assures that the student does not abandon the log for a better one down the river. Each party should be expected to do his or her job and do it well. It is important that all of those who are on the log talk and that each respect and support the role of the other.

     We have a noble mission as members of the Academy and we should be proud to be faculty at this institution. We are fortunate to be positioned as we are as a result of the quality of our faculty and the success of leadership of our president and his staff.

     Now, permit a point of personal privilege. I want publicly to thank you, the faculty of Drexel University, for making this a great institution. It is an honor to stand with you as your Provost.

     Join me in a commitment to the Imperative of Excellence at Drexel University.