The A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute will provide some great opportunities to make NCSA one of the leading schools anywhere for advanced opera training. We must reflect the state's demographic diversity. Given that NC has the 4th largest population of Hispanics, we must review our programs and our own academic culture. We must do a better job of recruiting students, faculty and staff of color, particularly African-Americans. Every effort must be exercised to reflect and embrace the diversity of our state and country.
Technology already has a major impact on our lives.
The arts have been reluctant to embrace technology, sometimes for good reason. But this school must provide leadership in utilizing technology where it is appropriate. Creativity is essential to innovation, and technology has assured us that we will be in the innovation business for years to come. Changes are taking place in the academy. Computers have taken the place of universities as the main source of information and knowledge.