Stuart Bell, the fourth candidate for executive vice chancellor and provost, spoke at the final candidate forum Friday, noting the value of the University and a need to continue building a better institution despite financial trouble.
Bell reflected on the Flagship 2020 initiative, highlighting the importance of improving the University through increased discovery and engagement.
He spoke of the many accomplishments he’s had as the former dean of engineering at the University of Alabama and current engineering dean at the University of Kansas.
Bell helped craft the Building on Excellence Initiative at Kansas, a $500 million “strategic plan” that aims to improve the School of Engineering’s graduation rates, facilities and number of faculty over many years.
The program relied on revenue from a number of resources, including private donations, more student tuition and some state support, he said.
But the “economic crisis” in Louisiana is no different than in Kansas.
“The budget challenge is certainly not just here,” Bell said.
He said it’s important for the University to show its worth to the state legislature.
“The relevance and impact of the University must be made clear,” Bell said.
Like other candidates, Bell stressed the necessity of improved diversity and research across disciplines to stimulate growth at the University. Expanding research beyond boarders is also essential, he said.
Bell said it’s important for students to be exposed to a “global perspective” in college with experiences like studying abroad.
“Our ability to prepare them for that is paramount,” he said. “We have to bring the world to them.”
Bell was more optimistic about the future for University faculty, saying there was “never a greater time to be faculty than right now.”
The biggest challenges facing faculty are engaging students who belong to an “incredibly connected” generation, he said.
Unlike his fellow candidates, Bell did not speak much on issues like lack of faculty pay increases or threats to the tenure system.
Instead he expressed optimism for the University’s current status and potential future, noting evident passion among students, faculty and staff.
“We have to make sure to move forward and in the most positive fashion,” Bell said.
 
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Contact Brian Sibille at [email protected].