The second finalist for SIU Carbondale Chancellor visited campus Wednesday.
George Hynd is the current president of Oakland University in Michigan until his contract expires in August this year, which was not renewed.
George Hynd has studied at universities across the country and world. From California to Colorado to Guam.
His experience ranges from professor, dean, provost, to president.
He says this experience gives him the skills to lead SIU during and after Illinois’ historic budget crisis by focusing on the future.
“I think re-visioning the mission of the institution, what is it that really unique about this institution and why would mothers and fathers want to send their students here.”
With 81% of the enrollment coming from Illinois, Hynd believes that recruiting should branch out farther to reach more potential students.
“I think there’s a wonderful opportunity to reach out and expand beyond the traditional attachment area.”
Hynd is optimistic that the budget crisis will come to end at some point and SIU should plan for permanent changes resulting from the impasse.
“This is going to be a different institution in the next 5 to 10 years and what is it going to look like.”
The first chancellor finalist J.S Elwell accepted the position of President at Eastern New Mexico University the day after he visited Carbondale and has withdrawn his name for the position.
