The parent of a potential student recently wrote to me with concern over the scandals that have damaged UNM. Her son, a model student by her account, decided to pursue his education elsewhere. If all I knew of the university were what I had seen in the media in recent months, I would make the same choice. The behaviors reported are shameful and inexcusable.
Photo: Elisha Allen, president, UNM Staff Council
However, the university I’ve come to know is not accurately reflected in the mirror of its scandals. Those exist and have to be dealt with, and Staff Council will continue to advocate for meaningful resolution. They detract from our core mission, credibility and support of each other when we need it most.
But a more important reality is found in the work of students, faculty and staff at every level and in every part of the institution. The university that I love is reflected in the hearts and hands of those who have committed themselves to their own betterment and improving the lives of others. We are blessed that they have chosen UNM as the place to make that difference, and they are the reason UNM is not defined by its shortcomings.
We still have top-notch education, research and patient care driven by the dedication of exceptional people. We still find a spirit of philanthropy that set a record for giving to the United Way last year as the stock market tumbled and seeks to do the same again this year. This commitment is expressed in large and small ways every day: from the individual who spends her lunch hour delivering meals to those who are unable to care for themselves to the Staff Council committee conducting a pet supply drive for animals in the shelter.
A few of the remarkable people on campus have been nominated for this year’s Gerald May Presidential Staff Award, one of the ways we recognize and retain staff with a commitment to excellence and service. One of my goals for the year is to increase the endowment that supports this award so that we can more adequately show our appreciation. You can help by designating a portion of your United Way gift to the Staff Awards Program at UNM.
I won’t minimize the magnitude of the issues we face, but there is much to celebrate, and a cause for hope even as we are challenged.
Contact Staff Council at scouncil@unm.edu or (505) 277-1532 or visit staff.unm.edu.
Column by Elisha Allen, president, UNM Staff Council
Posted by scarr at November 23, 2009 12:34 PM