The search committee for Appalachian State University’s new chancellor held a forum for students in the Linville Falls room of Plemmons Student Union Wednesday night.
More than half of Linville Falls was filled as students addressed the members of the committee in attendance with questions and concerns regarding what they thought were important when considering a new chancellor.
Many of the students there were representatives from various campus organizations, as well students that are not directly affiliated with any organizations.
Michael Steinback, the search committee chairman and spokesman, said “students have the most important role and are our main constituents.”
SGA President Dylan Russell, who is the only student on the search committee, asked the students in attendance for input on what they wanted for the next chancellor.
“The committee is actively seeking broad based input from all segments of the university community,” Russell said.
Russell said that students should detail the character traits, skills and other attributes that should be found in the next chancellor. He asked several questions of the students, including, “What is the Chancellor’s role on campus?”
Students also asked questions about the direction of the university and how the new chancellor will factor into that future.
“The [Town] of Boone has certain regulations and as the school grows, what is the balance going to be, between on-campus living and off-campus living?” Anna McNamara, Residence Hall Association president, said.
Sophomore political science major Annabel Butler brought up the issue of diversity.
“I would really appreciate if the future chancellor would focus on diversity,” she said.
Sophomore advertising major Carson Rich also brought up concerns for the future of students.
“Every student has that fear that they’ll just be a number on a spreadsheet,” Rich said. “As long as every student is viewed in a personal way, they’ll be no difficulty in finding a new chancellor.”
At the end of the forum, Appalachian Student Ambassador President Jacob Brooks voiced his opinion on the new chancellor and academics.
“Here at Appalachian, there’s always been an incredible academic atmosphere, and at the end of the day, it’s about academics,” Brooks said.
The search committee was formed after Chancellor Peacock announced his resignation April 2013. The committee recently announced that it will be working with the executive search firm Baker and Associates LLC to assist with the search.
Story: ELIJAH STROUD, Intern News Reporter