A former radio DJ herself, President Jo Ann Gora appeared on WCRD's "Radio Sweetheart" Tuesday night, fielding questions about her visions for Ball State's future and her pride in the university's recent accomplishments.
In a familiar setting, but on the other side of the microphone, Gora said she would be clueless using equipment in such a high-tech sound studio.
"My first job out of college was working in a rock 'n' roll radio station," Gora said. "Seeing this set-up now and seeing you playing music from your iPod is a real time warp."
The interview, led by host David Boulton, senior journalism major, spanned a variety of topics ranging from how to attract out-of-state students to Gora's future as president.
Boulton said the reason for having her on the show was to introduce freshmen to the university president. However, Gora spoke on a variety of issues. Echoing the theme of her speech from the annual Faculty Convocation, Gora stressed the need for higher standards in education and increased accountability.
"We want to be sure that we're providing a 21st century education for our graduates," she said. "There's more interest in how students are spending their time and how demanding faculty are."
Educational trends are changing, she said, and Ball State is adapting to those changes.
During an interview with Daily News staff after the radio show, Gora described her vision for the future.
"I think technology is the revolution that has come to higher education," she said, indicating the need to benefits from broadcasting knowledge across the globe.
She said the university is already noticing an increase in the number of students with hybrid schedules, which allow them to take both online and on-campus classes in the same semester.
"It will help them progress faster, and it suits their lifestyle," she said. "That's the mark of this generation."
During the radio show, though, Gora talked about more immediate issues.
She gave light-hearted answers to Boulton's more serious questions. When asked what she might have changed in the last seven years as president, Gora said she'd "decrease budget cuts — that's for sure."
"We've experienced budget cuts from the state, and I would sure change that if I could wave a magic wand," Gora said, smiling.
Even when faced with adversity, Gora said she likes to focus on the positives.
"We've been very successful in doing so many things," she said. "I never think about what we would have tried to do differently."
On that note, Gora said she's proud of Ball State's award-winning immersive learning programs, which teach students critical thinking skills through hands-on programs, most outside of campus and outside of Muncie. It's been a key part of her presidency.
"It is something I'm very proud of, and I think it is something that has brought national recognition to the university," she said. "But it is really what the faculty and students do ... that brings us this recognition."
Playlist during Gora's radio interview
"I Get Along Without You Very Well" by Billie Holiday
"Work Time" by Simone
"Looking in the Eyes of Love" by Alison Krauss
"Moondance" by Van Morrison
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