This past Meliora Weekend culminated on Sunday with the inauguration of the 10th president of UR. During the inauguration, President Seligman presented a powerful speech outlining what he perceived to be the four most fundamental virtues of the university as an institution. These aspects include academic excellence, academic freedom, diversity and a commitment to the greater Rochester Community.
Seligman should make every attempt to effectively market UR’s academic excellence. He has moved forward with this goal, showing an ability to quickly begin advertising on UR’s behalf. Despite the different goals that the individual colleges might have, Seligman should continue to follow through in incorporating them into a unified University of Rochester identity.
In his speech, Seligman also pledged to uphold academic freedom by supporting professors in their work. Seligman’s remarks reflect passion for the pursuit of discovery. As the president of a research university, every attempt should be made to preserve academics from political intervention.
Additionally, Seligman mentioned diversity as an important aspect of college life. Throughout his tenure here, he should uphold the new and effective standards set down by the Office of Admissions to implement this vision. The Office employs a multifaceted prospective of applicants, including not only race, but also hometown, socio-economic background and nationality to represent a community of diverse interests.
The fourth and final virtue of an academic institution that Seligman identified is community. UR has already had a strong community. However, it needs to extend itself into Greater Rochester. Following through with the Brooks Landing Project is a positive first step in this process.
While he may diverge from past presidents in his approach, his ideas of a university’s mission show great vision that will improve UR.
