During the chancellor’s roundtable held last Wednesday, students used more than half of the two-hour discussion to voice concerns about appointment t of Marc Holtzman.
A crowd of approximately 50, some of whom were faculty, raised questions on what exactly Holtzman’s duties will be at DU. Ritchie responded by saying Holtzman will not assume academic responsibilities, but rather will “be a fund- and friend-raiser.” Ritche said that Holtzman will not be his successor, as he does plan to retire. Ritchie stressed that, although this new “partnership” of having both a chancellor and a president is unusual, it is not unprecedented, citing that Regis University and the University of Boston both have these two positions.
“The title doesn’t mean he’s number two,” Ritchie said of Holtzman. “What went on will go on. I honestly don’t know anyone else of that caliber in the world.”
Graduate student Chris Rutan said, “I think this was an Enron-board thing. Why can’t he do it in the light of day and go through the process?”
Ritchie shot back, “I don’t think that’s fair. This is not an Enron-thing.”
Although Ritchie denied suggestions that Holtzman did not go through the process, he said that the decision is not open for discussion.
“We’ve had to act promptly,” he said. “Your input wouldn’t mean very much actually.”
As Holtzman’s appointment was not an academic decision, Ritchie said consulting the faculty had not been necessary. Holtzman’s role will serve to increase the recognition of the university through fundraising and making connections, but will in no way be involved with academics.
Although many of the students who attended came to ask about Holtzman, a few did come to the roundtable to address other issues.
Nic Heidinger of the DU Environment Team gave a proposal to improve recycling on campus. He said that approximately an average of 20,000 lbs. of recyclable material is gathered each month. Heidinger spoke to Alfredo Abad, director of custodial services and recycling, and was told there are not enough employees in the recycling department to gather all recycling on campus.
A graduate student said members of the Jewish community feel that there is cultural insensitivity on campus, coming from students but from faculty and administration as well. The student said he spoke to members of the Black Student Alliance and both groups concluded more diversity was essential to the DU community.
