An Open Letter to the Editor:
As Ball State's newest president, I respect the fact that President Jo Ann Gora is beginning to place her fingerprint on BSU's vision. In doing so, like most executives, she has the privilege to assemble her own team and to facilitate change. This is part of business (academia or other).
President Gora's recent decision to seek Vice President of Student Affairs, Douglas McConkey's, resignation and to restructure the Office of Student Affairs are certainly examples of her influence and vision at work.
For the record, I am highly suspect of this decision as it relates to the direction of the university, the future of Student Affairs at Ball State and the impact it will likely have on students once they have found their way onto BSU's campus in the way of services, fees and advocacy. Great marketing and press may get them to campus in better numbers and with better credentials (both important), but the quality of their entire experience once they are there is what creates the value most of us reflect on as alumni.
That said, the intention of this letter is not to debate President Gora's recent decision, but rather, to offer some perspective on what BSU is losing in Dr. McConkey's departure and what, I believe, the benchmark should be for his successor.
As a former Student Association (now SGA) president and vice president, I certainly had the opportunity to interact with Dr. McConkey more than the typical BSU student. I always found him approachable, tirelessly involved in student activities and events and, above all, the students' number one advocate for bettering the Ball State experience. Most of these are probably not surprising attributes for a Student Affairs professional. Now, let me tell you why he's been more than that to Ball State and countless students.
During my junior year at BSU, my grandfather passed away. During the burial ceremony, I saw Dr. McConkey in attendance. Nothing said, just quietly there in support. After a poorly thought through run-in with the University Senate, he tempered my youth and inexperience by creating a teachable moment that has served me well long since. During my senior year, he helped guide my graduate school decision and worked on my behalf to open many doors. When I married my BSU sweetheart years later, Dr. and Mrs. McConkey were there. Over the years since graduation, he has always kept me up to speed on BSU happenings and been my common thread to Ball State. A few years back, when Deborah and I were exploring ways to "give back" to BSU, Dr. McConkey helped us develop the Undergraduate Student Leadership Scholarship program now in place for current BSU students. These are just my examples, no doubt multiplied by numerous students over the years.
The bottom line, BSU is losing more than just a Vice President of Student Affairs, they are losing a consummate professional and a tireless ambassador for Ball State University. It saddens me to think that, under President Gora's vision, future generations may not have these memories to reflect on as part of their BSU experience. Dr. and Mrs. McConkey, thank you for your years of service to Ball State and its students. Your efforts have made a positive difference and the memories are enduring.
President Gora, best of luck with the national search. The bar is high and a lot of us are very interested in seeing your vision at work.
Sincerely,
W. Brad Hastings ('92)
W. Brad Hastings is an alumnus and wrote this 'Your Turn' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
