The News Desk Feb. 25
Welcome to the News Desk! In recognition of Presidents' Day and of university president David Glassman's upcoming retirement, I'm taking a look back at what has happened during his term at Eastern. The podcast is back after last week's break and I'll be hosting it by myself for the first time; tune in to hear about updated masking rules, what to look forward to in the Daily Eastern News and some behind the scenes information on my position as Multimedia News Editor.
David Glassman's History at Eastern
Eastern was not in a good place at the beginning of Glassman's term as president. A look back through articles in the News from 2015 reveals budget issues and layoffs of faculty and employees. As soon as Glassman was announced as the pick for the role, various members of Eastern's community began asking about his plans for the budget. Even before he was actually acting president, members of Eastern's community were focused on marketing and solving budget issues during his term.
Glassman's first official day in the position was June 1, 2015. Starting during the summer term, which is the quietest time on campus, gave him the opportunity to get familiarized with the university before the majority of students returned in the fall. That semester, Glassman began publicizing decisions made in the interest of repairing Eastern's budget. He also pushed for more funding from the state, along with other university presidents.
Still, he announced further layoffs the following semester. Throughout that first year, Glassman had to restate multiple time that despite circulating rumors, there were no plans to close the university.
Glassman announced his "Vitalization Project" as budget concerns continued the next year. The project included the formation of various committees on marketing and budget management. Their recommendations were released throughout Spring 2017.
When he wasn't dealing with finances, Glassman began teaching an evening forensic anthropology course; not only was anthropology his field of study, but Glassman has extensive experience in the field.
He also received the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Charleston Chamber of Commerce in 2017 in recognition of his work for the university and community.
Also, Kesha performed on campus during Glassman's term. Concerts aren't really related to the president, but it's pretty crazy that she performed at Eastern.
Glassman was also president when Charleston was named one of the top safest college towns in the U.S. He was also president when the We Are EIU flagpole was created in response to students' desire to have the Black Lives Matter flag flown on campus. He also oversaw two separate decision processes over whether or not to rename Douglas Hall, one of which is still in progress.
Of course, Glassman has been president during the entirety of the pandemic so far, which has been a host of unexpected changes for all of us.
Catch up with the news!
Now you know some of what David Glassman did as president. Here's what he was doing before that.
The Council on Academic Affairs and Student Senate held their weekly meetings.
Two jazz combo bands performed on Friday night.
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