As the university continues its search for a new provost, it is imperative the search committee assesses each candidate's commitment to the whole university community. Any potential candidate will have large shoes to fill, given the many successes of former Provost Elizabeth D. Capaldi.
Capaldi developed a broad vision for UB and lead a move toward establishing the school as a nationally renowned research institution. Her emphasis on promoting UB's Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics in the up and coming field of bioinformatics research put UB on the forefront of a highly publicized movement. In conjunction with the downtown medical campus, this was not only an investment in UB but also in the City of Buffalo. The ability to offer such a unique opportunity to students, faculty and investors is priceless when working towards a bolstered national reputation.
An increase in admissions and faculty hiring standards were also important aspects of Capaldi's vision. Despite financial strains on UB and the state, UB managed to hire 20 new faculty members. This allowed UB to continue growing the faculty in an effort to compete on a national level. Capaldi also advocated and worked to reopen the Center for Teaching and Learning Resources, which assists faculty in keeping their classes interesting and productive. The number and quality of incoming freshman also rose under Capaldi.
Capaldi exemplified the provost who is visible and accessible to the university community. She was forever trumpeting UB and its interests. Working through an economic downturn, Capaldi worked to increase the incoming freshman and graduate class size despite the State University system's disapproval. This allowed UB to remain solvent and to continue steady progress towards its goals.
Although it is easy to desire a candidate who is merely the second Capaldi, The Spectrum has identified an area in which Capaldi could have improved: balancing the need for scientific research with an effective sponsorship of the humanities. While it is widely recognized that the sciences are what draw money to the university, it is the arts that give it its soul.
The provost is entrusted with an immense power, which must be wisely used to enhance all academic programs. Academic funding must be spread evenly among all departments. New degree programs and increased class offerings should also be pursued. In addition, a conscious effort must be made towards drawing in distinguished faculty and students.
As the search committee prepares to select a provost, it has narrowed to three candidates, all possessing a background in science. The ideal candidate for UB is one who continues the inspired vision of Capaldi while adding the advocacy and enhancement of the humanities at UB. All things being equal, the committee ought to give highest consideration to the candidate who is willing to invest in arts and humanities as well as research.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
