BOT made whole again
Andrea Zimmermann
Daily Egyptian
One day after Wendler was bypassed for the presidency of Texas A&M
University-Corpus Christi, the SIUC chancellor told the Board of
Trustees this was not the first time another institution has approached
him.
In his monthly address to the board, Chancellor Walter Wendler said
since he has been at SIUC, he has been sought out more than 10 times.
"That should not be interpreted to mean I am not happy here," Wendler
said. "This is a rewarding experience."
Wendler said he is not the only one being recruited - so are many
faculty members, who are being drawn away from the University.
"This is a cost of success - one of the fallouts of successful
programs," Wendler said.
While the campus is still reeling from learning its chancellor was
applying to other universities, the Board of Trustees is also undergoing
entrances and exits by its members.
Harris Rowe, who served more than 30 years, resigned from the board in
early November, citing health problems. On Dec. 1, Gov. Rod Blagojevich
appointed Keith Sanders, a former SIUC dean, to serve the rest of Rowe's
term, which is set to end in 2007.
A.D. VanMeter could also be on his way out the door in January. After
the meeting, VanMeter, who has served on the board since 1975, said even
if the governor offered him another six-year term, he probably would not
accept it.
VanMeter's departure would leave only one member with more than a year
of experience on the board. Ed Hightower, who is the chair of the
Academic Matters committee, was appointed by former Gov. George Ryan in
2001.
During its meeting, the board recognized Rowe, who was not present, for
his many years of service. VanMeter, who served with Rowe for most his
tenure, said Rowe had a genuine interest and love for the University.
Not only did Rowe lend years of service to the board, but also guidance.
Marilyn Jackson is one of four members who were appointed in February
and was helped by Rowe's years of expertise while adjusting to life on
the board. Jackson said many times during the trips to the board
meetings, Rowe would teach her the ropes.
"As a freshman member, it was an honor to have met him," Jackson said.
Sanders acknowledged the large void Rowe left.
"I cannot fill the seat that he occupied," Sanders said. "I cannot fill
the shoes that he wore, but I will give it my very best."
The board's next meeting is Feb. 10. The fate of the Dental Technology
program could be an item for discussion because, although on the agenda,
it was not explored during the December meeting.
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