Summary of Service

Academic Senate Service: BOARS representative(2004-), CUARS member (2004-), Task Force on Undergraduate Education in a Research Environment (2003), Academic Senate Program Review Ad Hoc Committee Chair (2000-01), SEAS FEC member (1999-2000), Undergraduate Council (1996-99: Vice Chair UgC, 1998-99, Chair of Admissions Subcommittee of UgC and liaison to CUARS, 1996-1997), Committee on Educational Policy (1990-92), Legislative Assembly Representative (1986-88). Administrative Service: Vice Chair for Undergraduate Affairs, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Dept. (1999-2002). Other University Service: SEAS Accreditation Committee Chair (2003-), Faculty Resources Task Force (2002), Summer Session Planning Committee (2002), SEAS Dean Search Committee (2001-03), Dean Review Committee (2000-01), General Education Governance Committee (1998-present), Committee on Instructional Improvement Grants (1997-present).

Statement

UCLA needs Senate leadership that knows the campus, knows the Senate, knows the breadth of perspectives across disciplines, and can speak with knowledge and authority to administrative leadership.

Each of these requirements takes on heightened importance because of budget cuts. If we are to preserve the excellence of the University, those who know most about academic and research quality – the faculty – must work closely with those who best understand financial and political constraints – administrative leadership. Our respective strengths strengthen the whole.

Three of my experiences at UCLA – one in assessing the quality of our academic programs; one in navigating the critical and politically charged terrain of undergraduate admissions; and one in making an important and difficult assessment of a senior administrative leader – have prepared me for this challenge. My strengths lie first in forging consensus across perspectives: I have learned that everyone must be heard if the solutions that emerge are to be durable. Second, while I’m not confrontational, I won’t hesitate to stand fast against administrative pressure when core academic values are at stake.

I know UCLA, I care about it deeply, and I would be honored to help guide us through our present challenges to a brighter future.