The preferred candidate for chancellor, Jeffrey Vitter, addressed multiple controversial questions about the University Thursday in the faculty visit session.
Michael Barnett, the president of the Faculty Senate and theater professor, asked Vitter to comment on the recent discussion of symbolism on campus.
Michael Barnett speaks at faculty session with preferred candidate Jeffrey Vitter Thursday. (DM Photo | Ariel Cobbert)
“Many faculty believe that the symbols on our campus – meaning the flags, the statues, street names and building names – hinder our efforts to retain high quality faculty staff and students,” Barnett said. “I know this week in the news you’ve been asked your opinions on the flag and you spoke broadly. I was wondering if you could speak more specifically as chancellor of this university how you plan to address these difficult issues.”
Vitter said on this matter he hoped to look forward, not revisit issues that have already been addressed, and commended the campus senates and administration on how each reached decisions concerning the flag.
“(The discussion surrounding the flag) basing its view on the UM creed and those core values of this institution to in form the discussion, frankly, shined a light on what’s important to the university so that difficult dialogue can happen,” Vitter said. “My whole drive is ‘Where are we now?’ and ‘Where do we need to go moving forward?’ I do not want to revisit past issues.”
After the session, Barnett said he understood Vitter’s need to speak to more constituencies before speaking more specifically on his views of campus symbolism.
“I think these are very challenging issues,” Barnett said.
Beth Spencer, English professor, asked Vitter to explain how he would increase trust between the campus and the college board.
“We have had an issue in the past year, affectionately called a trust deficit, with the IHL board,” Spencer said. “We do not feel like we are being listened to over the past year. We want to know, sincerely that we will be listened to.”
Vitter said he hoped to meet with departments and understand the needs of different areas so that each person feels hear.
“I understand that there has been a lot of controversy over the past year,” Vitter said. “At the same time, I was amazed a the level of time and dedication of the board search committee. It’s why I made the decision to be the preferred candidate and pull out of other situations, because of the unparalleled commitment to the betterment of the state of Mississippi. My whole goal is to look to the future.”
Alan Perry, president of the college board, said these questions are ones Vitter will face all year.
“Every time he speaks, he adds nuance that makes me convinced he is the right candidate,” Perry said. “Its’ been a great experience.”
Preferred candidate Jefferey Vitter speaks at the faculty meeting Thursday. (DM Photo | Ariel Cobbert)
