Glenn McConnell ’69 has been president of the College of Charleston for 100 days. The College Today asked President McConnell to assess his presidency thus far.
The new president says he’s been soaking up information and listening to students, faculty and staff about their concerns and ideas. While he’s been busy getting up to speed on where the College has been and where it is currently, he’s also looking excitedly toward the future.
Q: What do you consider your major accomplishments during your first 100 days as president?
A: Since July 2014, we have made major strides in a variety of areas, including:
- Initiating planning for the 10 percent acceptance procedure for high-achieving students.
- Finding a resolution to the men’s basketball coaching situation, hiring Earl Grant as head coach, and ushering in a new era at TD Arena.
- Obtaining approval of the College’s new mission statement from the Board of Trustees and the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education so the College’s component, the University of Charleston, South Carolina, can, when need requires, award doctoral degrees.
- Initiating a comprehensive traffic study in an effort to maintain portions of St. Philip Street and Coming Street around campus as one-way streets.
- And, most importantly, sharing my vision for the College with all of our stakeholders.
Q: What is next on your list of priorities?
A: I want to complete the College’s acquisition of the building at 176 Lockwood Blvd., which will house offices not required to be on the historical footprint, thus freeing up critical space on campus. I also want to identify and secure additional funding for the College and continue to accelerate our diversity efforts.
Q: What are the top goals you hope to achieve within your first year as president?
A: First, to obtain research university status for the College’s component, the University of Charleston, South Carolina, from the South Carolina General Assembly.
Second, to increase the number and size of scholarships we offer. Many high-achieving students want to attend the College, but many of these students ultimately choose other universities that offer more generous scholarship packages. At the same time, many students from disadvantaged backgrounds would consider the College as an option if we were more affordable. We must provide more scholarship opportunities for these students as well. I want students from across the country and around the world to have an opportunity to earn a College of Charleston degree and change the trajectory of their lives.
Q: What has surprised you the most about your alma mater since returning as president?
A: The number of moving parts at the College. Stepping into the job, I knew it was a significant undertaking to operate the College and ensure a high-quality experience for our students. However, it is one thing to understand that concept in theory and another thing to experience it firsthand every day.
RELATED: Learn more about President McConnell.
Q: How do you plan to remain closely involved in the day-to-day lives of students?
A: I hold regular meetings with the presidents of the Student Government Association and the Graduate Student Association. These conversations give me an opportunity to hear about concerns and to gather feedback about the student experience and College initiatives. In addition, I plan to attend as many student activities as possible, such as plays, concerts and sporting events. I am also communicating with students via email and through my monthly e-newsletter. Finally, I am mentoring a freshman, which is such a rewarding experience.
Q: What has been your favorite thing to do on campus since coming back to the College?
A: I enjoy eating lunch at Liberty Fresh Food Company. The variety of food is wonderful! I also enjoy interacting with the students, faculty, and staff on campus. If you see me in Liberty, you are welcome to join me at the table.
Q: What piece of advice has been most helpful to you in your new position?
A: Ask for assistance. I knew coming in that I would have much to learn from the campus community. The amount of talented and knowledgeable faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the College who have made themselves available to help and advise me has been remarkable. I am so thankful to everyone for their wisdom and support.
Q: How can students or alumni reach out to you with a question or concern?
A: I can be reached via email at mcconnellgf@cofc.edu.
