Miami University President Calls For University To Think Big

BY MAGGIE CALLAGHAN
Miami University journalism student

Miami University President Gregory Crawford wants the institution to start thinking big.

“I am calling on all of us to think big and bring forward visionary ideas to embrace the future,” Crawford said in his State of the University address.

Speaking at Wilks Theater at the Armstrong Student Center last week, Crawford outlined his vision to make Miami a global leader, saying "creativity, imagination, and innovation will empower everything we do."

He highlighted Miami's teacher-scholar model, calling it "foundational for Miami University – it is who we are and how we attack enduring questions and complex challenges."

Dollars will be directed at strengthening that priority, he said. “Our upcoming campaign will significantly invest in faculty and academic programs, both in disciplines where we excel and transdisciplinary initiatives where we will continue to advance.”

In search of discoveries

For faculty, Crawford is prioritizing research opportunities. He spoke about the importance of faculty and students working side by side to make new discoveries. He also noted that Miami will be hiring someone to better connect faculty and staff to more research opportunities.

“We will elevate our mechanisms and move our scholarship and research discovery into the world for societal benefits,” said Crawford.

On the student perspective, Crawford is focusing on job placement.

While many Miami students already have ease finding a job, Crawford is aiming to find more opportunities for students earlier in their college careers. He noted the importance of finding internships between sophomore and junior year.

“With our expanded facility, we will innovate even more in career exploration, including more internships opportunities and experiential learning,” he said.

In order to fund these programs, Miami will need successful fundraising, Crawford noted. In 2016, Miami's office of University Advancement had its most successful campaign ever, raising almost $100 million.

“This is the new normal,” said Crawford.

Student health key

Crawford also addressed priorities outside the classroom, specifically related to student issues on Miami's residential campus. With two new residence halls opening in 2018, Student Affairs is devising a strategic plan to transform the residential experience at Miami, the president reported.

“With this infrastructure in place on Oxford campus, we can be bold in our vision so that we can advance residential life, intellectual engagement, academic integration and a health living environment,” he sai.

Crawford also noted issues related to student health, including alcohol, mental health and sexual interpersonal violence. He called on everyone to help each other and act as one Miami. “This is a straightforward requirement for the Miami community, living by the code of love and honor."

Top photo: Miami University President Gregory Crawford highlights successes and shares goals in his talk at Armstrong Student Center. -- Photo by Maggie Callaghan