The tide has certainly changed over the past year. Both current Legislators and candidates are calling us, asking for input and indicating their support for higher education in general and The University of Alabama in particular. Some may question what our role should be in this area. It appears to me that we need to be responsible citizens, knowledgeable of the issues facing our local and state government and communicating our concerns about education at all levels K-12 through higher education. Many legislators have complained about not hearing from us in the past.
Responsible citizenship is an active role, one that implies participation.
Under the leadership of Scott Bridges, Chair of the Agenda Committee, faculty and staff have been encouraged to be informed and involved . The effort last year in partnership among the administration, faculty, alumni and staff resulted in long overdue raises for our faculty and staff. This cooperative venture was a first and the outcome rewarding. We are in an election year now. We urge all faculty and staff of the University to take an active role by contacting the candidates of your choice, communicating with them about issues confronting the University and our needs for a fair share of the Education Trust Fund.