The new University of Hawaii chancellor spoke for the first time today on his hopes and plans for the Manoa campus.
We were able to speak to tom apple by video conference this morning.
He spoke about everything from his love of the islands to responding to concerns about his annual salary.
"I guess the kids today would say that I’m ‘stoked’. I’m very excited. This is a great university, it’s going to become even greater," says Tom Apple, Chancellor elect.
Some of his top priorities for the Manoa campus are to increase graduation rates and expand the university’s research capacity.
Something many professors hope for too.
"I think its important that different disciplines that are working independently may come together," says Kasi Ahrifi, UH School of Architecture Professor.
UH ranks top 30 in public universities in obtaining research funds- but Apple aims for some double digit increases…increases he was able to secure while serving as provost at University of Delaware.
"Make sure our research is having an impact and making the economy of Hawaii hum," Apple continues.
Something else he would like to see is a successful athletic program.
"While I wont be dreaming where we might be..there is a really good conference on the west coast that it would be wonderful to be a part of eventually," says Apple.
He believes athletics are a great opportunity for students to learn team work, leadership, and how to win and lose gracefully.
As for what some have called a hefty $439,000 salary and the expectations that come with it.
"I feel pressure and I like that and I work best a little scared…scared and excited," he says.
Apple and his wife are expected to arrive in the islands in mid-June, at which time the current chancellor Virginia Hinshaw will help him transition to be ready for his first day of work on July 1st
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
