According to Chancellor Wrighton, several construction projects are proceeding according to plan. The new William and Elizabeth Gray Danforth University Center is continuing as scheduled and will be fully operating in fall 2008. Seigle Hall for Social Science and Law will be completed by August, and also be functional by fall 2008. The Trustees also reported that construction has begun on The BJC Institute of Health, in “what will be the largest building erected in the University’s history.” By December 2009, the building’s shell and core are expected to be complete.
Despite some rumors, the Chancellor confirmed that the University has no intention of changing its Division III status within the University Athletic Association. The schools with which Washington University competes “are like us,” Wrighton said. They are all private, part of the Association of American Universities, and value academic excellence alongside athletic success.
The Board discussed its continuous Plan for Excellence, meant to strengthen and develop the University academically. It is pursuing a policy of not only diversity, in areas of religion, traditional minority status, and international students, but also inclusiveness so as to “make sure students feel welcomed and supported.”
As happens every year this quarter, the Board voted on the status of those professors being considered for tenure: all were approved.
Concerning the KIPP charter school in St. Louis, the University has pledged not only to sponsor and oversee its development, but to establish a partnership with the institution. Rather than simply “sign off” on how it is functioning, the University will have its reputation also invested in the school, and therefore work to insure its success.
In January, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch announced Chancellor Wrighton was awarded Citizen of the Year. In recognition of his award, Wrighton will address the St. Louis community in a speech which will emphasize Wash. U.’s plans for further involvement in St. Louis. While the University supported the surrounding city now, he admitted it could work harder to “strengthen St. Louis.”
In preparation for the debate next fall, a small group investigated University sites. Security and other logistical matters are being planned, right down to where the vice-presidential candidates will speak and where spectators will sit. The University expects to receive a certain amount of tickets to allot to Wash. U. students, but will work to ensure many students are able to participate in the event. The University will push for large numbers of volunteer positions to be open to students, as well as press credentials to those working for Student Life.
Check studlife.com throughout the break for updates.