If you've ever wanted to ask President M. Peter McPherson a question, here's your chance. No topic is off-limits. University budget cuts, MSU's financial coalition with Gov. Jennifer Granholm, affirmative action, his favorite foods - they're all fair game.
Anything and everything you've ever wanted to know will be answered when McPherson hosts a question-and-answer session with students at 7 p.m. tonight in the 2 North Lounge of Case Hall.
This Q&A session is the perfect opportunity for students to interact with McPherson, something that most students never have the chance to do. By answering questions posed by students, the administration learns more about their needs and interests and students are able to get their voices heard.
That's why it's important to get a large student turnout. We applaud McPherson for making the effort to connect with students and for helping us to become more informed about the issues that surround MSU.
Yet, while we commend him on this, we also recognize the importance of building an educated society. MSU strives to graduate students who are both well-rounded and informed, and by allowing students to further their knowledge about the university they are all a part of, the administration is succeeding in its goals. Dodging or evading the questions will not achieve this. We feel it is of the utmost importance that McPherson answer each question honestly and fully.
The event also should be held more than just once a year. Thus far this academic year, McPherson has returned from Iraq, the university has made decisions regarding the budget, individual colleges have been reorganized and the city of East Lansing drew up a new noise ordinance. All of these things are relevant to students, but some are months old now. Having had such a Q&A session during the fall semester could have addressed some of the earlier issues.
Regardless, having an open discussion between students and the president is a step in the right direction. Let's continue to build positive relationships with the administration, and turn out in high numbers in order to get our voices heard.
