CAMPUS GOVERNING

Southeast Missouri State University's president, Bill Atchley, suggests an examination of the entire governing structure on campus. He says the review should stretch from the Board of Regents to the Faculty Senate. Vice presidents, deans, student government and even the president's office would also be reviewed.

It is a notion that has some folks on campus a bit worried. Status quo is fiercely embraced by many, even if they agree that the system needs work.

It appears clear Dr. Atchley, who took on the president's duties just a few months ago, isn't going to be treading water. He offers an outsider's point of view with considerable experience to back up his suggestions. "Why?" can be a one-word question that moves mountains and brings a breath of fresh air to stagnant circumstances.

A campus fuss began when Atchley sent a letter directly to all faculty members seeking input on a common-hour proposal suggested by students. A common hour is a time slot in the campus schedule that allows everyone the opportunity to participate in an activity at the same time. Some members of the Faculty Senate were upset that the procedure improperly bypassed the senate.

But Atchley thinks the university's governing structure must move away from turf battles and endless meetings without action. He thinks the university would be better served by a mission of mutual trust and an attitude of "getting the job done."

Even Dr. Terry Sutton, chairman of Faculty Senate, agreed that the university's governing system is plagued by too much bureaucracy and time-wasting procedures. Lack of direct communication among various university boards can lead to misunderstanding, said Sutton.

But Atchley rightly pointed out that bureaucratic problems aren't limited to a single group. The entire system must allow members to provide input and then to make the best decisions they can make. He thinks that applies to a university or a business.

The university community could benefit from a review of campus governing systems. Atchley has much to offer the university, and this review of bureaucratic roadblocks may be a good place to start.