I hope I am wrong. However, it seems that the deck may already be stacked when it comes to the Louisiana Tech presidential search committee. Despite the fact that our university has been a shining star of the system since its inception, there are those who would have us take a backseat to the perceived “flagship” of the system.
Given the political realities of our state, I believe there is reason to be concerned about whether the search committee will be allowed to make its recommendation free of outside influence. The selection of Louisiana Tech’s next president should be based on what is best for our university, not on political preferences or allegiances.
Although all of the universities in the system are supposed to be equal in their status, there has been a movement afoot to put a crown upon the head in Lafayette. They’ve even claimed the title. Don’t be fooled. Even I can put on a red and blue suit and insist you call me Peter Parker, but that doesn’t make me Spider-Man.
The presidential search committee should have the independence to do its job free of undue political influence. Will politics be involved? Of course. We know that’s simply the way the world works. However, it is my prayer that this committee will have the internal fortitude and integrity to perform its duties with open minds and select the individual who is best for Louisiana Tech and the Ruston community.
Our students, faculty and staff have worked very hard to create an institution that is recognized across our country for its excellence. The next president should be someone who can continue that trend. This does not have to be at the expense of other universities in our system. Healthy competition is good when we are given a level playing field upon which to compete.
The people of the Louisiana Tech community are watching this process carefully. We care deeply about the future of our university, and we expect those entrusted with this decision to put Louisiana Tech’s best interests first. Those making decisions at the state level should understand that the Tech community is paying attention and that the decisions made during this process will not soon be forgotten.
— Doug Postel
