Changing Faces
Posted on Aug. 10, 1991From the University Report (published by the GAA 1970-94)
In the last several weeks many alumni and friends of the University have expressed concern about the number of University administrators who have resigned or are retiring. All of us who care about our alma mater and about higher education in North Carolina want the comfort and reassurance that the oldest public University continues to be strong, vital and among the nation’s best. Do these departures and pending retirements threaten these objectives?
Provost J. Dennis O’Connor is leaving to become president of the University of Pittsburgh, like Carolina another member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. His successor as interim provost is Dr. William F. Little ’52. Little hold two graduate degrees from Carolina, was a recipient of the General Alumni Association’s Faculty Service Award and a leader in the formation of the Research Triangle Park. He is a distinguished member of our chemistry department, a former vice chancellor, and a Carolina faculty member for 35 years. Our University can be proud that someone having the stature and experience of Dr. Little has been tapped as interim provost.
In addition to O’Connor, the Associate Vice Chancellor for Development, Bob Sweeney, and Associate Vice Chancellor for University Relations, Bill Massey ’67, have left to assume responsibilities as vice president for development at the University of Virginia and vice president of the international public relations firm Ruder Finn, respectively. In both instances, each individual leaves behind a record of loyal service to Carolina to pursue positions that will advance their professional careers.
Regrettably, Dr. Gillian Cell, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and for 26 years a member of the University’s faculty and administration, has left to become the chief academic officer and provost of Lafayette College. She leaves behind an impressive list of achievements and an exemplary record of commitment to the College and to our University.
Finally, UNC School of Business Dean Paul Rizzo ’50, Director of the Institute of Government John Sanders ’50, and Dean of the School of Social Work John Turner, have announced that they will be stepping down at the conclusion of the 1991-92 academic year. Each will have reached retirement age and will have completed distinguished administrative careers at Carolina.
Sanders has continued in the tradition of Institute of Government founder Albert Coates ’18 to nourish this unique program that provides so many services to North Carolina. Rizzo has brought excitement, needed resources, and a bold vision to the School of Business. Turner’s passion for the School of Social Work has activated an impressive legion of volunteers, and together they are addressing North Carolina’s expanding social welfare agenda.
Given this background, each departure is understandable, though in times of budget pressures, each of us would hope to have strong, sustained leadership in every administrative position. As Chancellor Paul Hardin and his colleagues continue the work of selecting new administrators, alumni are encouraged to be active in the process. After all, each alumnus wants the value of a Carolina diploma to appreciate over time. Strong administrative leadership from individuals who understand Carolina’s special mission, traditions and values, who are aware of the growing complexities of our $700 million of budgeted programs, and who are thoughtful, hard working and effective communicators becomes critical as the internal and external challenges facing Carolina grow.
Yes, these are times of changing faces. But the University’s unique and special mission need not, should not change. It becomes increasingly important that those who lead us continue to understand and share the excitement of carrying on our time-tested vision for North Carolina and for higher education.
Yours at Carolina,
Douglas S. Dibbert ’70
