University leaders discussed current issues facing the University at the third annual Commission on the University's Present yesterday night in the Dome Room of the Rotunda. The panel addressed questions of financial challenges, safety, the transition of the presidency, environmental sustainability and discrimination based on sexual orientation.
The purpose of this commission "is to create a direct opportunity for students and faculty/administration to openly discuss the ongoing issues at the university," said Sipian Wang, co-chair of Student Council's Academic Affairs Committee, which hosted the event. Panelists included both administrators such as Pat Lampkin, the vice president and chief student affairs officer, and Student Council President John Nelson.
Panelists began by discussing what they consider to be the University's greatest challenges, as well as opportunities. Several administrators noted that the institution will have to maintain honor and excellence while adjusting to state budget cuts.
"The financial model will need to develop and change," Board of Visitors member Susan "Syd" Dorsey said. "We need to become more autonomous."
Such budget cuts will force the University to find other means to support its ongoing construction and growth, she added.
Students also expressed concerns about the University's current state of affairs. The commission began with questions drawn from Student Council's Speak Up UVA, an online forum intended to facilitate discussion about ways to improve life on Grounds. Prior to the event, students submitted questions and voted on them through the site, Wang said. Students in attendance also were allowed to ask their own questions.
In particular, students seemed to express several concerns about the upcoming transition to the presidency of Teresa A. Sullivan.
The panelists in general said they were optimistic about Sullivan's qualifications, experience and character. The president-elect's knowledge of higher education, experience in budgetary responsibilities and eagerness to immerse herself in all facets of the University will be significant assets to the community, they said.
"She knows she's a Wahoo from now on," said Leonard Sandridge, executive vice president and chief operating officer. "She knows she won't only wear orange and blue; she'll bleed orange and blue."\nStudents also sought information about the administration's approach toward safety on Grounds. First-year College student Seana Hedayatnia noted that safety has become a common concern among students since the Morgan Harrington homicide last semester.
In response, panelists said students should take personal precautions by remaining aware of their surroundings and walking with others.
"We are relatively safe, but that doesn't mean that bad things don't happen here," Sandridge said. "No one can guarantee that anywhere on Grounds is safe ... But so much of it could be better if we realize that we can assume some responsibility for our own safety."
Overall, the commission was seen as a valuable way to increase communication between students and administrators.
"I'm glad we can keep those dialogues going, especially with students being brought into the mix," Academic Affairs Co-Chair Tatiana Matthews said.
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