While serving as provost in the 1980s, Kirwan raised admissions standards, increased merit scholarships and graduate fellowships, and established an academic planning process. He is known for his long-range vision and for his talent as a consensus builder. Under his leadership, Maryland undertook a major restructuring of its academic organization, as well as a streamlining of its academic offerings, made necessary by reduced state support. Also noted for his enormous energy and long work days, Kirwan regularly found time to teach an undergraduate class. To relax, he enjoys attending classical music concerts and playing tennis.
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