Ramsey's PR Campaign Continues

If you were wondering whether the University of Louisville Trustees would step in to provide oversight where none has existed - there's no apparent sign of it going that way.

In today's C-J, former trustee, David A. Jones, defends U of L President James Ramsey and Provost Shirley Willihnganz. His piece focuses on the positive aspects of their tenure - and that's all. He would have us believe Ramsey just had a very bad day.

Ramsey's attempt to treat serious Felner allegations like a PR problem is now being handled in the press...like a PR problem.

Ramsey praised for his leadership at U of L

The University of Louisville and its leaders are going through a rough patch right now.

Allegations of serious and unfaithful conduct by a former dean, if proven true, demonstrate a need for prompt, effective action to strengthen oversight in several vital areas.

Congratulations to the university for calling these alleged wrongful deeds to the attention of the proper authorities, and congratulations to The Courier-Journal for its extensive and enlightening investigative reporting.

There's a wonderful children's book called The Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day, which notes that such days occur, even in Australia.

Such days end, while the remarkable accomplishments under the inspirational leadership of President Jim Ramsey and his thoughtful, energetic and effective provost, Shirley Willihnganz, continue. Examples of their improvements include:

Retention and graduation rates are up significantly.

Current ACT scores have climbed to an average of 24.4, well above the national average score of 21.2, a positive indication of a better future workforce for our area.

Endowment has grown from $479 million to $796 million and a record $86 million was raised in the 2007-2008 academic year.

President Ramsey and the university are on a roll, and the reason is clear: leadership.

Ramsey is bright, experienced, thoughtful, humble, gutsy, action-oriented and totally focused on improving every aspect of the University of Louisville.

When he arrived, there were studies showing that a majority of faculty members would not send their children to the university. Morale was low. A firm hand and clear vision were required.

He provided that vision and toughness, requiring endless 12-hour and longer days and perhaps on occasion he was a bit too tough.

He will certainly profit from his current experience, and our community will continue to profit from his leadership if the trustees stand firmly behind him, based on all his very good days!

DAVID A. JONES