New dean discusses coming back to IU

Incoming Dean of Students Pete Goldsmith addresses his biggest challenges, approaches to student issues and following in Dean of Students Dick McKaig’s footsteps in the following interview with the Indiana Daily Student.

IDS How has IU changed since you were an undergraduate?

Pete Goldsmith It looks very much the same, although, of course, there are more buildings. I think what my task was, was to understand what IU is like today. What are the differences I need to understand? (Visiting) was very comfortable, but it was also different than when I was a student. Certainly the academic profile of the student body has been elevated a great deal. That brings with it its own concerns and pressures – a lot of stress and competition.

IDS What is your approach to student affairs?

Goldsmith In terms of how I approach things, I try to listen a lot. I’ll really be in an intense learning mode for the first few months, just trying to get my feet firmly planted. I think one of my skills is bringing people together when there are issues or problems we’re trying to solve.

IDS What do you think will be some your biggest challenges?

Goldsmith Trying to master the environment. It’s a large, complex, terrific place. I get excited thinking about how things work, how the whole system is set up and how I can be part of that. I like the whole notion of trying to master new things.

IDS How do you feel about following in Dean McKaig’s footsteps?

Goldsmith You can’t replace Dick McKaig, so I’m not going to try. I will certainly honor his legacy, and I hope to build on the foundation he’s created. He’s a very unique individual, and one that I highly respect. But it’s not a question of replacing him. It’s a question of building on the legacy he’s leaving.