Syverud proves capabilities by placing importance on student body, rankings

Kent Syverud might be the chancellor that students have been waiting for.

When Syverud was named Syracuse University’s 12th chancellor on Thursday, he proved he could become a highly visible and approachable figure on campus who is willing to learn about the university’s culture.

This makes him the right choice for chancellor.

Despite concerns about Syverud’s lack of upper administrative familiarity, he enters his new position with experience as dean of law at Vanderbilt University and Washington University.

With this past experience, Syverud brings new abilities that could make him successful in this position.

For example, his focus on students is admirable.

While interviewing employees at his previous position, Syverud gauged a candidate’s qualifications based on how quickly they mentioned students during an interview.

Despite having the responsibilities of a dean, Syverud holds weekly office hours at WU.

Now, as a new member of the SU community, he plans to learn as much as he can about the community, including the experience of dining hall meals, residence halls and the wee hours of student nightlife.

If Syverud implements this approach on SU’s campus, he will become a highly regarded asset to the university.

Syverud’s recognition of the importance of rankings also indicates a positive future for the university.

Chancellor Nancy Cantor did not focus on college rankings. Syverud, however, has said the university should work to better emphasize their importance.
While these rankings do not define the university, most current and future students care about them. Syverud is able to recognize that the higher a university is ranked, the higher caliber students it will attract.

The attractiveness of the university is also based on its ability to propel into the future of higher education. Syverud was successful in integrating technology with higher education while at Washington University, where he helped develop an online law degree.

It is important that Syverud is able to recognize the future of higher education.

But before looking forward, Syverud should observe the efforts of past chancellors.

For example, after observing Cantor’s focus on improving the university’s relationship with the city, Syverud should determine what will define his tenure as chancellor.

Still, attention and visibility among students should be a priority for Syverud.

Between connecting with the student body and maintaining his ideas of technology and higher education, his chancellorship could leave an immeasurable mark on the university.