The Observer, March 10, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 20
Free Speech Zone: Hundert on the right track for Case and Cleveland
To the Editor:
As a first-year Case law student, husband of a fourth-year medical student, and life-long Cleveland resident, I was most disappointed by the events surrounding the Arts and Science faculty's decision to express "no confidence" in President Hundert. Their decision is particularly hard to understand in light of the most evident progress that Case has made under President Hundert's direction, and I fear that the faculty's decision may diminish the confidence of the larger community regarding the direction of the university.
President Hundert has led Case to become a better school and better community member during his tenure. President Hundert's commitment to making Case a desirable undergraduate and graduate destination is his most visible legacy. The new Village at 115, state-of-the-art athletic facility, and partnerships to facilitate the development of shops and restaurants around campus have all given Case a more collegiate atmosphere. While these projects are visible, their contributions are not. Last year, Case admitted its largest-ever freshman class while increasing the average board scores of its admitted students. President Hundert's investment in the Case campus is already paying dividends. Moreover, this commitment has not been at the expense of Case's academic programs.
As noted, the makeup of the student body has become stronger academically, not to mention more diverse in their studies; students no longer view Case, incorrect as it may have been, as an engineering school. Similarly, the law, business, and medical programs have all continued to develop into excellent graduate schools. The medical school in particular has become one of the top programs in the country. Obviously, Case is committed to providing a great education.
Finally, I have been impressed by the role Case has assumed in the community. Whether facilitating investment in the areas surrounding campus or encouraging students to be active in the community, Case takes seriously its responsibility as a Cleveland institution. Those of us who are from the area know this has not always been the situation, and we are most pleased that President Hundert is as committed to Cleveland as he is to Case. Hopefully, the faculty, board of directors, and the larger community recognize the good leadership President Hundert has provided and will work with him to aid Case's continued growth.
Benjamin D. Malbasa
Law Student
