Give new UI president a chance

To the editor:

Although my wife and I were disappointed in the selection of the new University of Iowa president, we believe that he should be given a chance to do the job.

It is disappointing to see faculty send no confidence votes. It is another indication that there is no place for different thought on any campus in the state. This is a sad example of what we are teaching the next generation. Shut down the person before they are allowed to take office. Is this where we have come in the United States?

I taught at two different universities in another state where state law was that a university president must have an earned doctorate. I believe this is an important prerequisite. I do, however, have an open mind and believe that there was a reason this candidate was selected. I am willing to give him a chance.

An open mind, when I was a student and a teacher, was encouraged and celebrated. Now, it seems that minds are closed. What happened to academic freedom, diversity of thought and celebration of differences? If this is what we are teaching our college students, what type of society will we have in the next decade? If you happen to disagree with the faculty union, will you be shunned, flunked and kicked out of the university? That is not only the opposite of what should be taught, but also what should be celebrated. Give the man a chance.

Steve Groner

Marion