The University is undergoing a series of changes that require strong leadership at the upper-most level, which is why the Board of Trustees should vote to renew University President Steven Knapp’s contract.
Knapp’s five year contract ends next year and the Board will soon have to discuss if Knapp will be at the helm past Aug. 1, 2012. It is highly unlikely that GW’s highest governing body will not offer the president a new contract, but it is still important to voice support for a renewal.
While Knapp has some issues, like trouble connecting with students and a lack of transparency among his administration, it would be an unwise and potentially damning choice to let his contract expire.
From the renovations to Gelman, a fast-tracked priority toward research and a focus on sustainability, Knapp has too much left to accomplish to see his tenure at the University be this short.
The Board of Trustees should not allow the leadership of Knapp and his team’s endeavors to fall under someone else’s purview. GW is just beginning to see itself transform as a result of the Steven Knapp presidency. It is most sensible for the community to follow along with the results with Knapp leading the way.
This article appeared in the October 20, 2011 issue of the Hatchet.
