Eleven University student leaders met Tuesday to speak with Michael Martin, sole finalist for the school’s chancellor position.
Although the meeting was closed to the media, the students took time after the meeting to discuss what they thought about Martin.
Shannon Bates, Student Government vice president, said Martin’s experience with diversity at New Mexico State University is incredible, and she thinks he can implement a lot of it at LSU.
Cherie Teamer, Student Union Board president, said two of Martin’s major points are to make changes to faculty positions and increase the overall academic excellence of LSU.
“I’m really confident about his skills and that he can come in and make changes to put LSU on the map,” Teamer said.
Amanda Gulino, LSU Ambassadors chair, said Martin is young for his age.
“He related with almost everyone in the room with at least one issue,” Gulino said. “He really wants to be connected to the students and wants to hear from us … to bridge the gap between the higher administration and the people who pay to come here.”
Bates reinforced Gulino’s comment.
“He said he’ll try to make a point to eat at the student center in the Union, and I’ve never seen that,” Bates said.
Joshua Dara, Alpha Phi Alpha president, said Martin seemed genuine and wanted to see the campus improve.
Kevin Vaughn, National Pan-Hellenic Council president, said Martin’s dedication to reach out to the Baton Rouge community was impressive.
“He just doesn’t want LSU better, but he wants the whole Baton Rouge to be a better place,” Vaughn said.
Brent Benoit, University College Center for Freshman Year president, said Martin has hopes for LSU.
“He has a foundation set on LSU, but he’s ready to bring it to the next level and show everyone else it can happen,” Benoit said.
Colorado Robertson, SG president, said the 11-member group unanimously voted to approve Martin and recommend him to the Chancellor Search Committee.
The Committee will meet again Wednesday afternoon to hold an exit interview, and on Friday to discuss whether it will recommend Martin to LSU System President John Lombardi.
The LSU Board of Supervisors have the final vote to determine whether Martin will become the LSU’s next chancellor.
—-Contact J.J. Alcantara at [email protected]