Some of the most distinguished figures at the University focused attention toward the future of the institution and the state. James Wharton, former University chancellor, tapped into the importance of TOPS for the University and whole state. “There’s no question about the value of TOPS,” Wharton said. Wharton pointed out the higher average ACT scores of those students who complete the core class requirements of TOPS and the amount of money the TOPS program contributes to the state. “TOPS is worth an endowment of about $500 million,” Wharton said. Forum participants also mentioned the importance of learning about the University’s past in order to build a better future. Kevin Cope, Faculty Senate president, said although the University is still in its “adolescence” compared to many other universities, there is a rich history that should be focused on. “We’re working on the commemoration of deceased or heavily retired faculty members,” Cope said. “So, we’re trying to recover some of the sense of what LSU has done in the past, so we’re not constantly trying to chase after an elusive future. Cope said there are also talks of producing a book to highlight the “150 treasures of LSU.” The panel also discussed increasing graduate enrollment numbers. Jim Stoner, Department of Political Science chair, said the key to a strong graduate program is a strong faculty. “It’s not always the measurable qualities, but the discussions and conversations that are going that make the difference in whether students choose to continue their studies at LSU or move on to other universities,” Stoner said. Panel members said the student body can also contribute to the University’s Flagship Agenda. “First and foremost, what happens in the classroom is central to what happens at the University,” Stoner said.
—-Contact Katie Kennedy at [email protected]