The tragic events in recent months have been more than any University community should ever endure. To heal and move forward, the leadership of Penn State needs to find a meaningful balance that preserves the storied history and traditions of the University, enhances the business interests of a seminal public higher education institution with a successful athletic program and builds upon the essential nonprofit foundation of education.
The current issues within the leadership structure of Penn State are broad and evoke tremendous emotion. While it is imperative that the Board makes sweeping changes in the way the University is governed, any solutions must be both measured and objective, considered carefully by those who best understand the intricate landscape of higher education and its influence on all aspects of society.
I propose that such balance be achieved swiftly and with the utmost integrity by those charged with serving. The Charter and Bylaws of the Board should be revised to guarantee an appropriate distribution of power, and should be based upon the best practices of successful non-profit and education-based Boards. A culture of collaboration in which alumni, faculty and students all have a greater voice in shaping the policies of the University is critical to the future of Penn State. I believe my background and expertise will help shape a Board willing to work with the entire University community to find common ground and create solutions that will work for the greater good and rebuild the luster of an American educational icon.
