Students, faculty respond to selection

Every college undoubtedly has a personality. The tricky thing for a newly-named president is to capture that spirit which makes our University unique and incorporate it into his own vision of how to move the college forward. \nBut IU is more than just buildings; its soul resides in the faculty, staff and students that make up the living institution. With the IU board of trustees unanimous vote of Dr. Adam W. Herbert to IU's presidency, that living institution cast its own vote Thursday.\nMost people said they were pleased with Herbert's appointment.\nIU Student Association President Casey Cox said he awaited the opportunity to "establish a new relationship with a new president."\nHe also said many student's believe the president seems like a campus celebrity -- out of touch with the their needs as a student.\nCox said he thought Herbert seemed like someone who is approachable, with the same concern for students that was the mark of past president Herman B Wells. \n"We're excited," Cox said. "He seems ... very qualified. He gives us hope that we'll have a nice relationship working with him, and he's someone to look up to in the administration."\nHerbert's past leadership experience also did not go unnoticed. IUSA Vice President Grant McFann said Herbert is more than qualified for the job.\n"I hope that he can move Indiana University in an upward direction in its national and international reputation," McFann said. "He seems like a very friendly person and students look forward to working with him in a mutually beneficial relationship to help provide students the best academic opportunity and college experience." \nJunior Thad Czuba said he hoped the new president will be "dedicated to student interests and involvement and develop a better relationship between authority and the student body."\nProfessor Hal Pepinsky echoed the sentiment that the president tends to be a position far removed from the students and instructors, but hopes Herbert can change that. \n"I am pleased that at the top we are diversifying," Pepinsky said. However, he added that the University still had a long way to go in terms of diversity.\nFrank Motley, the associate vice chancellor for academic support, said he was excited about the selection of Herbert. \n"It is a great appointment," Motley said. "Best news I've heard in a long time. His resume is impeccable"