We had a very positive half-hour meeting with the Dean during which we focused on solutions. They left the meeting with instructions to follow-up with Vice Dean Safwan Masri. Masri plans to meet with Campbell and Biswarup very soon. It caught our attention because it illustrated how, as occupants of this building, the issues we face are similar to those a tenant has with a landlord. The survey came at a very good time.
Additional help is on the way.
In mid-October John Preis will join the staff as the new Associate Dean for Administration. His portfolio of responsibilities will include building and operations, financial planning, human resources, admissions, and financial aid. Preis spent a day in Uris last week observing administration meetings. He already submitted a written report of his impressions to the Dean including suggestions on how to move forward on the building maintenance issues. Preis hopes to launch a Quality Control committee to keep issues, such as those raised in the survey, on the radar screen.