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YSU Penguin Athletics => YSU Penguin Athletics => Topic started by: Wick250 on February 20, 2014, 11:47:33 AM
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I am surprised that nobody has reported this yet. For the benefit of those outside the area, Tim Ryan sent a letter to the Board of Trustees urging the appointment of Jim Tressel to the presidency. It was signed by a Who's Who of 31 community leaders including Denise DeBartolo York, Tony Cafaro, Sam Covelli, plus high tech and traditional business owners and union leaders. As I mentioned in the Dunn thread, a modern university president has little hands-on control of academic matters. Instead, he must be proficient in public relations, fundraising, and lobbying. I would grade Tressel highly in each of those. This is still a long shot, but if the movement grows it could make trustees very uncomfortable and more willing to think outside of the box.
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Has anybody thought about this.... Does Tressel even want to come back here??? I'm all for him coming back, but I haven't heard one inkling of him wanting to come back to YSU. I heard he loves it up in Akron and supposedly is on the task of trying to build Akron a new basketball arena at the moment. I'm all for this.... Just seems like a long shot.
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The rumor is he is in line to replace the current Prez of Akron who will retire shortly. Bigger $$$$$$$$ and more high profile than YSU. He was promoted to V-P as they groom him to take over.
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The rumor is he is in line to replace the current Prez of Akron who will retire shortly. Bigger $$$$$$$$ and more high profile than YSU. He was promoted to V-P as they groom him to take over.
Right ...it is a "done deal". He has a buyout for coaching jobs. I would be interested in seeing those terms. It looks like he already makes more than the president of Akron. Tressel would be the greatest AD in the country, but no-one could afford him at that capacity aside from upper-end big-6 universities.
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IAA
Is it really a "done deal ?"
I heard otherwise, but it seems you have more information.
Akron President was to retire in June and initially, Jim Tressel's name was not
on the list of the Board as to potential candidates.
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I doubt Ryan would have sent the letter, plus attained the overwhelming support from business and community leaders, without some kind of indication from Tressel that he is interested.
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I doubt Ryan would have sent the letter, plus attained the overwhelming support from business and community leaders, without some kind of indication from Tressel that he is interested.
I agree, no doubt several of the local big shots that signed the letter have JT's cell number
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This photo was blasted all over social media today. On Facebook, it has over 276 shares. On Twitter, it has over 125 retweets. For those of you that do not know social media, that is a significant amount of shares.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/1924773_10152276348170329_662316611_n.png)
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It's really embarrassing to the region and institution that people would be rallying so hard around someone so unqualified for the job of university president. Only in NE Ohio can people think a football coach is qualified to run an institution of higher learning. Tressel's academic credentials barely make him qualified to be an adjunct teacher at the school, let alone president. It's a joke.
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It's really embarrassing to the region and institution that people would be rallying so hard around someone so unqualified for the job of university president. Only in NE Ohio can people think a football coach is qualified to run an institution of higher learning. Tressel's academic credentials barely make him qualified to be an adjunct teacher at the school, let alone president. It's a joke.
Easy for someone living in Ivy League country to say. Do some research. YSU is not the only school to go outside the mold to hire a non-traditional President. Read this study: www.aascu.org/uploadedFiles/AASCU/Content/Root/MediaAndPublications/PublicPurposeMagazines/Issue/11summer_presidentpipeline.pdf
Our social media push continues to grow. The excitement we are seeing toward this university is very high right now. Keep pushing folks.
To conclude, Boston, numerous media reports cite Tressel as a candidate for Akron, a school double the size of YSU. He is learning a great deal as VP at Akron and he already has community relations, fundraising, and leadership qualities that are necessary for the job. If chosen, Tressel will surround himself with an A+ staff to ensure our academic standards remain high.
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Great three page article ::) Unfortunately, Tressel doesn't really fit the bill on transferable outside experience either. I know he has some vanity title at Akron and does fundraising. That's great. If he is so great at fundraising, put him in the development office. He has no credibility when it comes to academics or scholarly research. None. That's actually what the point of a college is. Just because Akron is willing to damage it's academic reputation by hiring a football coach as university president, doesn't mean YSU should too. But---we are talking about the same region of the world that needed federal prison and congressional redistricting to finally stop sending Jim Trafficant to congress. So, I get where this is coming from...
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First of all, I'm not sure why Tressel would want the stress and aggravation that comes with being President of a University. He seems very comfortable and at peace in his current position at Akron. I really do not see him leaving Akron unless it would be for a Head Coaching job in the NFL.
As for Tressel as President at Akron, just do not see that happening. I understand that being able to raise money and do all of the PR things are a big part of being a University President. But, I think it is also important to have a person with a strong academic background in higher education. The job at Akron is a very good fit for Tressel, because he gets to interact with students, faculty and staff, teaches and he also helps with fundraising and increasing the profile of the University.
I think it would be great to have him in the administration at YSU, but not as President. It really does not say much about YSU if Jim Tressel is the best the school can do as it's President. Then again, in the Mahoning Valley, it seems as if the vast majority of Principals and Superintendents in the K-12 schools system are former coaches. So, not really a surprise that many in the area, even those who are "prominent" would be pushing for Tressel as President.
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I am not suggesting that Tressel has the academic qualifications to preside over university academic programs. Clearly, he does not. The job of a college president has changed radically over the past few decades. In the old days, when states properly funded their colleges, presidents rose from the ranks of professors. They had little to worry about finances. Raising funds was a low priority. Today, with state support for education at historic lows, fundraising is priority number one. That is why many universities are turning to manager-CEO types for leadership. Their presidents are fundraisers and public relations men. Academics are handled exclusively by a provost.
That is what could happen here. The provost position is currently open, and we should be conducting an exhaustive search for the person who would have complete and total control over all academic matters. The president could be the new style executive. The face of the university. His realm would be exclusively public relations, fundraising, and lobbying. With the academic component removed, Tressel is perfect.
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What you say makes a lot of sense Talk. One thing that I heard from several sources was that Minnesota was willing to "go to bat" for Tressel (against the NCAA sanction and show cause) to have him come work with the team when they expected coach Kill to be out for at least one season. They felt that seeing as though coach T was only gong to be there temporarily, the would be granted the order. Once again Kill looks much better and this never transpired. I also think that Minnesota tested the waters in advance and did not like what they heard from official sources.
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What this country needs is LESS academics.......running our academics!!!!!!
Tressel for President!!
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Well I guess we now know where we stand. Give him back his 500k and rename the watts center,
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Well I guess we now know where we stand. Give him back his 500k and rename the watts center,
He applied to Akron before Dunn even announced he was leaving. I guess he should have looked into that crystal ball that won him five titles to see our Pres was on his way back to Illinois?
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Well I guess we now know where we stand. Give him back his 500k and rename the watts center,
He applied to Akron before Dunn even announced he was leaving. I guess he should have looked into that crystal ball that won him five titles to see our Pres was on his way back to Illinois?
I guess he should have. I do not recall seeing the date he applied to akron, what was the date?
If he applies to YSU consider my statement retracted and I will eat my words. Heck I hope I am wrong but my gut tells me to start getting donations toward the 500k.
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He's not coming to YSU. Give it up people!
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He owes absolutely nothing to YSU
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Well I guess we now know where we stand. Give him back his 500k and rename the watts center,
He applied to Akron before Dunn even announced he was leaving. I guess he should have looked into that crystal ball that won him five titles to see our Pres was on his way back to Illinois?
I guess he should have. I do not recall seeing the date he applied to akron, what was the date?
If he applies to YSU consider my statement retracted and I will eat my words. Heck I hope I am wrong but my gut tells me to start getting donations toward the 500k.
Looks like no answer to the date he applied to akron, oh well as of yesterday he has not applied to YSU.
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Akron is another fresh start for him. A good choice. The next step for him. Moving back to Youngstown brings the news media back writing the "story" about (rumored) scandal at YSU ( Monus) and the OSU debacle. He doesn't need that.
Love the guy. He'll do well at Akron. A more vibrant city than Y-town currently.
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As usual. Living in the past instead of focusing on the future. Fix the problems before you create new ones.
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Local media is reporting that Tressel has applied for the YSU presidency.
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I heard Wednesday it may happen, but also hearing UA may announce finalists very soon and you can be the is on it. Time is of the essence!
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I for one am happy that he applied and hope they do hire him.
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Hmm interesting. Maybe he got denied the Akron job?
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Local media is reporting that Tressel has applied for the YSU presidency.
I will say that I am surprised.
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Happy for YSU, that Tressel would apply. An honor in my opinion, Just mine, I don't ask that other posters agree.
0505....your attitude is overwhelming and least desired for progress. Do you ever, where YSU is concerned,wear rose colored glasses? Don't want to offend you but....wish you would quit the gloom and doom.
I truly wish Jim Tressel the very, very best for him, be it whatever!!!
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Well...this is awkward. The school has to interview him because of his history with the school. But---he is obviously not at all qualified for the job.
I love Tressel...but I wish that both schools get a bit of self-respect and drop this silliness. If one school is going to humiliate itself, I sure hope it is Akron.
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If he is able to surround himself with the right people to handle the academics I dont see how you pass on him..... Baggage or not he brings too much to the table.... No doubt, YSU needs him more than he needs them....
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Happy for YSU, that Tressel would apply. An honor in my opinion, Just mine, I don't ask that other posters agree.
0505....your attitude is overwhelming and least desired for progress. Do you ever, where YSU is concerned,wear rose colored glasses? Don't want to offend you but....wish you would quit the gloom and doom.
I truly wish Jim Tressel the very, very best for him, be it whatever!!!
Pita, how was my comment doom and gloom? I said interesting... Maybe he got denied the job at Akron? He was in charge of student affairs there for2 years and seemed in line to be next president. Relax..... I'm only doom and gloom about Mr. Slocum ;)
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Boston,
About ten years ago, I would have laughed at this right along with you. Having done research in the past month, I was somewhat amazed to learn that over 20% of the universities in America, including several with impeccable academic reputations, have bypassed the traditional model (Ph.D. and former professor) and hired presidents with CEO-managerial backgrounds without strong academic credentials. At all those schools, it was understood that the president would be in control of fund raising and public relations while a strong provost would have exclusive power over academic affairs. That is sort of becoming the 21st century model. Following that model, Tressel becomes viable, because there would be none better at public relations and fund raising.
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I'll tell you one thing, if YSU doesn't choose Tressel, the city might riot.
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You are doom and gloom, if I must paint you a picture....because you say he must have been denied at Akron. Could YSU be so lucky? Countless posts by you are so negative concerning the University. Including, I might add your sarcasm, so noted about Coach Slocum, who if you read my posts, I respect. Sorry you don't, but I do. Doesn't make me right, just pointing out your negativity of the University. No offense, just explaining.
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What this country needs is LESS academics.......running our academics!!!!!!
It is more important to have the right academics....running our academics.
When you rob Peter to pay Paul you never get an objection from Paul.
Wick I agree concerning the President position be more fundraising. E. Gordon Gee was one of the most sought after college presidents, not because of his academics, but because he was one of the top fund raisers. Even Harold Enarson <dating myself here> spent the majority of the time glad handing so to speak during his tenure at Cleveland State and Ohio State. If you have a good academic board of directors I am fine with that. A President that tries to oversee or control all areas of academics usually does not grasp the whole picture.
Randy Dunn supposedly left to be closer to his family and back to his Alma Mater. Can't fault him on THAT point. I can't fault Tressel for wanting to come back to Youngstown and if I am correct, the Akron position became available before the announcement of Dunn leaving.
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You are doom and gloom, if I must paint you a picture....because you say he must have been denied at Akron. Could YSU be so lucky? Countless posts by you are so negative concerning the University. Including, I might add your sarcasm, so noted about Coach Slocum, who if you read my posts, I respect. Sorry you don't, but I do. Doesn't make me right, just pointing out your negativity of the University. No offense, just explaining.
I said " Hmm, interesting. Maybe he got denied the Akron job?" Jesus Christ, if that's doom and gloom, might as well kick me off the board now. He applied to the Akron job first, so my thought there was if he applied to YSU, maybe he is out of the running for the Akron job and thinks he has a better chance here. Sigh.
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Well so much for my theory. LOL......I hope they decide on him. And I hope he picks YSU.
And Scarlett.....fundraising is "selling". And selling is business. We need business folks running things in this country. Not administrators.
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Tressel appeals to one kind of donor---football fans. Anyone else would or should be turned off by this hire. While I am not a big time donor to the university, I am strongly considering withholding any donations to the university if they choose to hire a person with zero credibility in academics or research for the top job at the university.
To Wick's point----I could possibly rally around a non-Ph.D. president, but it would have to come from someone with real executive management experience...not being a football coach. And, we are all not acknowledging this person was fired from his last major university job for breaking NCAA rules. Granted, the NCAA is a farce...but it doesn't send a great message as a university that our top boss was once fired for breaking NCAA rules.
I just think the only two school in the country that would possibly consider Tressel's weak credentials are Akron and YSU. If Tressel applied anywhere else, people would think it was a mistake or a typo.
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Message to 0505, your new name is now "Doom and Gloom" as "Mr. Negative" has already been taken. I like that.
Message to the rest of you, Jim Tressel (we are not a typical university - we are going reinvent ourselves to be what a university should be the 21st century. He is exactly what we need (have him sell naming rights to every door, room, hallway, street, building, sports area etc. - I hear BP is ready and willing to name the new Beegly). YSU needs to reinvent itself as a real university not a commuter school (you should not be allowed to apply to YSU as a marginal student - go to one of the two local community schools first). Build new buildings (get the new Nursing School building up), hire correctly (hire teachers/professors from the real world), control the unions (we are 8 million in debt - don't dare ask YSU for more money) (run off to professors who only exist to write textbooks, and not teach), continue the emphasis on research and development (like the Siemens Project), acquire more land (close off Lincoln Ave., create the new grass mall, etc)!
Message to Pita, "hon" don't worry about the comments made by "Doom and Gloom", I was criticized for a long period of time for my loyalty to Coach Robic (I know you hated his foot stomping) and I still stand behind my comments made in his behalf. He was very good to me and my family.
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Message to the rest of you, Jim Tressel (we are not a typical university - we are going reinvent ourselves to be what a university should be the 21st century. He is exactly what we need (have him sell naming rights to every door, room, hallway, street, building, sports area etc. - I hear BP is ready and willing to name the new Beegly). YSU needs to reinvent itself as a real university not a commuter school (you should not be allowed to apply to YSU as a marginal student - go to one of the two local community schools first). Build new buildings (get the new Nursing School building up), hire correctly (hire teachers/professors from the real world), control the unions (we are 8 million in debt - don't dare ask YSU for more money) (run off to professors who only exist to write textbooks, and not teach), continue the emphasis on research and development (like the Siemens Project), acquire more land (close off Lincoln Ave., create the new grass mall, etc)!
This is a tall order for a new President...especially one with no serious executive management experience. Moreover, I don't understand where in Tressel's past it would indicate he would be able to execute any of the things you describe above other than fundraising. In fact, the only reason anyone can give as to why Tressel would be a "good" choice is his potential fund raising ability. If this is true, I think a BS vanity title like he has at Akron or some job in the alumni office is appropriate. Top job at a university? Please.
Beyond that, though, is I don't understand how a school transitions to a "real university" from "commuter school" by hiring "teacher/professors from the real world". I don't even know what that means. A "real university" hires the best academics they can slot from the best institutions. While YSU isn't going to attract Harvard Ph.Ds, you should be able to fill your professor ranks with Ph.Ds from 2nd and 3rd tier graduate programs. "Real universities" promote scholarship in their teachers. Book writing, which you seem to dismiss above, is a part of that. Moreover, YSU professors mainly spend their time in the classroom. There are very, very few research oriented faculty at this university. If you think their are, trust me...as someone who has worked at a few universities...YSU professors are first and foremost teachers.
And...this is the crux of the problem...hiring a football coach to run your university, I feel, would be a giant red flag to actual academics and real university administrators. Not only would it make me question the competency of the President's Office, but the Regents who thought this was possibly a good idea. Hiring a football coach to run your university signals to the whole outside world that the decision makers at this institution "give up" and have low expectations for what YSU can be and the kind of employee it can attract. As an alumni with great pride in my undergraduate institution, I can't accept that. I just hope the decision makers at the university do not bow to public pressure from a ton of people unqualified to tell you what it takes to run a university by hiring someone unqualified to run a university.
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Message to 0505, your new name is now "Doom and Gloom" as "Mr. Negative" has already been taken. I like that.
Message to the rest of you, Jim Tressel (we are not a typical university - we are going reinvent ourselves to be what a university should be the 21st century. He is exactly what we need (have him sell naming rights to every door, room, hallway, street, building, sports area etc. - I hear BP is ready and willing to name the new Beegly). YSU needs to reinvent itself as a real university not a commuter school (you should not be allowed to apply to YSU as a marginal student - go to one of the two local community schools first). Build new buildings (get the new Nursing School building up), hire correctly (hire teachers/professors from the real world), control the unions (we are 8 million in debt - don't dare ask YSU for more money) (run off to professors who only exist to write textbooks, and not teach), continue the emphasis on research and development (like the Siemens Project), acquire more land (close off Lincoln Ave., create the new grass mall, etc)!
Message to Pita, "hon" don't worry about the comments made by "Doom and Gloom", I was criticized for a long period of time for my loyalty to Coach Robic (I know you hated his foot stomping) and I still stand behind my comments made in his behalf. He was very good to me and my family.
Now this is a good plan. Need to make YSU more appealing to people outside of Youngstown.
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He held the position of Athletic Director for six years at YSU. Guess all of his leadership credentials should be discounted? That department has a multi million dollar budget and he was successful in that position, other than getting snubbed into the MAC.
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According to today's paper, Tressel applied yesterday to be YSU's Prez. He is now officially in the mix while also under consideration at Akron too.
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Haven't posted or read in awhile, but I thought this topic might be spurring some interesting conversation when I saw the story on the news. Thanks for not disappointing.
I think if you ask most people in education, whether it's at the college level or K-12 level, what the biggest problem they face is they'd say it's lack of money. Based on the public support that came out a month or so ago from the community leaders, it seems like donations would increase with Tressel as president. I would think enrollment would increase out of the publicity he would bring, and I have to believe his speeches at recruitment events would be pretty compelling. I would also think that he could convince a respectable provost to join him. It's completely reasonable for academics to have concern, and that's something that should be discussed during the interview process. But more money = more money for professors = happy professors. More money = better academic facilities = happy professors. Respectable provost = happy professors.
I'll be interested to see the list of candidates when it's released. Hopefully there are several outstanding candidates, and, since we're all Penguins fans on this board, hopefully they are pro athletics.
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ELPENGUIN,
What is the new Beeghly you are talking about?
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Not so fast my Boston man. One of the problems facing students today is they are being taught by professors who are out of the loop.....the real world. My own education process hardly related to my work. Actually the corporation I worked for made it a point to hire college graduates and place then in areas outside of their area of study. All that most major corporations wanted out of graduates before and now is the question can the graduate preform disciplined enough to take direction and follow the corporate policy. No doubt most universities have missed the boat. My advice to any student is ......Get real life instruction from those professors who have worked in real life not the "namby bamby researcher" who all they do is write text books and charge huge fees to purchase textbooks good for only one year. I undersatnd that is where the money is.
Not so fast my Bostonian man. Jim Tressel had more than enough experience to lead. Athletic Directorship, and coaching at a major university is no more than delegating responsibility and making sure the boys are as they say "coached up". You handle discipline, recruiting, finances, hire/fire, plan, strategize............and of course this accomplished under pressure of 16 or more hours a day.
On a sort of personal note, our corporation hired Tressel to conduct seminars on productivity, morale, leadership. and motivation. His presentations were right on the money and he had the corporate men wanting more of his philosophy and strategies. Believe me he is what this university needs for the 21st century. As a another side note, I understand that close to 30% of university presidents hired are now from the corporate world.
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I feel Jim Tressel can successfully LEAD and GROW Youngstown State. He can appeal to younger students and I feel having him speak at high school events on campus can only help our case when we compete with local colleges.
Jim Tressel's biggest hire will be provost. Of he can surround himself with a top notch staff, which he has done in all of his positions, he will succeed here.
Far too many local high schoolers have this "ehhhh" feeling about YSU. I'm not far removed from those days and I'm well aware that it is still the case. We need to change the perception of our university if we want to make it a university with 16-18k students vs 12-14k.
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At first, I thought Jim Tressel being President of YSU would be a big mistake. But, then I thought about the posts by Wick250. I thought about the fact that fund raising is a huge part of being a University President. I thought about how much support Tressel has from prominent members of the Ytown/Warren area, most(or all) of whom are financial donors to YSU. Some donate as individuals, some through their companies, and others do both. Also, many of these people attended college, and did so at schools OTHER than YSU. These people have a vested interest in YSU being a quality University, because in many cases graduates from YSU will be applying for jobs at these companies. And, almost all of the business owners supporting Tressel likely have at least a few YSU students as employees.
Tressel's ability to network, raise funds, interact with students and people in general, would all be highly valuable in this position. I could see Tressel being highly visible on campus. Being a President that students could talk with about things pertaining to their education, the campus, or just having a conversation. That is his nature, and in time word of YSU having a President who actually cares about the students, the University and the entire community would spread well beyond the Ytown/Warren area.
I also spoke with a person I know who is originally from another country. She came to the US to go to college, and has both a Bachelor's and Masters Degree from schools here in the US. This person is not a huge sports person, and had never heard of Jim Tressel before meeting me. I asked her if a college she was considering attending had a person with Tressel's background as President, but an "academic" as the Provost if this would turn her away from a school, or cause her to not look at a school. She said no, having a person who had made their name in athletics would not deter her from attending a college. And, the fact said President was so well respected in the community, and had the personable nature of a Jim Tressel would even be viewed as a positive. My friend graduated with honors in earning both her Bachelor's and Masters. She also comes from a country where schools do not have sports teams.
The likelihood Tressel would leave YSU in 1-2 years if hired is slim. I know there are people who think he still wants to coach football. And, he may still have a desire to coach football. But, he also has a desire to do other things. I truly believe if hired as President of YSU, he would stay in that position as long as his health allowed him to do what it takes to get the job done.
I really believe this can work at YSU. Tressel as President, and then a highly regarded
"academic" as Provost, who is in charge of the academic functions of the University. With YSU receiving less and less money each year from the state of Ohio, it is more important than ever that YSU have a President who can raise money and who knows how to deal with people as people.
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I hope JT is selected as the next YSU president.
Some people are mediocre, and just get by (gee...who might I be referring to?). Others are doers get the job done. Tressel is the later. Continuing with the Dunn's and Anderson's will give us similar results as we've had. Maybe enrollment, athletics, academics, funding, and campus infrastructure at YSU can make progress like other schools have seen.
He has shown a commitment to YSU, and I believe would be an effective University president.
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I hope JT is selected as the next YSU president.
Some people are mediocre, and just get by (gee...who might I be referring to?). Others are doers get the job done. Tressel is the later. Continuing with the Dunn's and Anderson's will give us similar results as we've had. Maybe enrollment, athletics, academics, funding, and campus infrastructure at YSU can make progress like other schools have seen.
He has shown a commitment to YSU, and I believe would be an effective University president.
How long til the academic unions put up a fuss about this to the local media? They got their way four years ago with Dr. Anderson and she left town after three years. They got another academic who left town after seven months on the job in Dr. Dunn. Perhaps some of these academics aren't best fit to handle the overall day to day business dealings of the campus, i.e. labor negotiations, budgeting, fundraising, etc.
List of applicants should come out this week. Prepare not to be floored by many of the other applicants for the job.
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Frankly, I am not interested in him at anything less that AD/HC ...even that is questionable. I mean our salary for president is not exactly what he is making now anyway. I hope he takes the Akron job temporarily and goes back to coaching in 2-years ...has some success and retires into an AD job. Take the guy from Toledo and move on. I think he applied earlier, so he may have interest. UT has the exact type of sports program that we want.
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Ok so I will play the devils advocate. Did JT apply because he really wants the job or did he apply as a courtesy to all those folks that were pushing for him?
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He applied for LEVERAGE between two institutions who have some fans of his-- he'll leverage one against the other in getting the "best job" he can get at the best terms and $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.
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I think your spot on about the LEVERAGE.... They need to interview him 1st and offer immediately to call his bluff (If he is what they want).... BOTs has had enough experience interviewing ALL the recent candidates....
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Per the people I've talked with with knowledge, he is very interested in the job and we have a great chance of landing him. Go read up on the audited financial statements of each school and you'll find his major concern with Akron. With funding cuts, that is a problem that I wouldn't want to touch.
UA:
https://ohioauditor.gov/auditsearch/Reports/2014/University_of_Akron_13-Summit.pdf
--$513 million in long term debt
YSU:
https://ohioauditor.gov/auditsearch/Reports/2014/Youngstown_State_University_13-Mahoning.pdf
--$82 million in long term debt
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;D ;D ;D
are you serious ? Akron has a net of $493 million vs YSU's $192 million. And has a great deal of fat to cut if need be. YSU ?
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None of us are qualified to interpret the significance of these accounting figures. Well, Indy knows this stuff perfectly, but the toxic atmosphere on this board drove him away. Here is one fact that is not subject to conjecture: The University of Akron recently cut 10% of their academic programs! That happens at struggling, obscure private colleges, but it might have never taken place before at a state school in the United States. By contrast, even in these difficult times, YSU has added programs in the STEM college and a doctoral degree in physical therapy. But hey, Akron is in the MAC. They are "Big Time." How much of that $513 million debt was acquired as Akron pursued their sports delusion....obviously at the expense of academics.
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None of us are qualified to interpret the significance of these accounting figures.
I do this for a living my friend.
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He applied for LEVERAGE between two institutions who have some fans of his-- he'll leverage one against the other in getting the "best job" he can get at the best terms and $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.
100% Agree. AND I would like to add ahtat the school is suffering from the mediocrity that is "Academic Administration". Every state institution is suffering from this disease.
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Given the list of applicants, I am even more certain that hiring Jim Tressel would be the best thing for YSU. This is provided YSU goes after a person with a strong academic background to be Provost, and then there is an agreement that the Provost would be in charge of all academic affairs.
I have a proposal I think could work out well. Hire Jim Tressel as President, and Dr Martin Abraham as Provost. Fill both positions at the same time. Dr. Abraham has a solid academic background, and is familiar with YSU. With this arrangement, Dr. Abraham can focus on ACADEMICS and RESEARCH, while Jim Tressel handles fund raising, PR and all of the non academic related functions that come with being a University President.
Also, no matter who is hired, I hope the Board of Trustees is smart enough to put a clause in the contract that the new President stay at least a minimum of 5 years, or else have a significant financial penalty be paid the YSU.
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Valley,
Excellent. Using your expertise, please give our friend Paladin a more detailed explanation why having a $513 million debt is a very bad thing for the long term prospects of a university. He won't believe you but give it a shot anyway. :o
Let's Talk,
You stole my idea about Tressel-Abraham from the other thread. I beat you to it by eleven minutes. 8) But you can have it. Let's just hope the trustees are wise enough to move in that direction.
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Wick, sorry for stealing your idea. But, great minds think alike ::)
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;D ;D ;D
are you serious ? Akron has a net of $493 million vs YSU's $192 million. And has a great deal of fat to cut if need be. YSU ?
I hope you realize you made mention of each University's net position, which is the non-profits version of retained earnings. That is in no way the net profit, or in the non-profit world, change in net position for the University. All that tells me is that over the history of each University, there were years where they took in more revenue than expenses. If you note in the case of Akron, their "net," as you like to refer to it as, decreased by $14.1 million over the last year as they had that deficit in revenue less expenses. For YSU, it actually increased by $670,000 as the University took in greater revenue over expenses.
When you look deeper into the audited financial statements, you note a long term debt schedule which displays the principal plus interest owed by the University each year for the next X number of years. In the case of Akron, page 25 of the audited statements shows that they will owe $30-31 million per year in principal plus interest on their long term debt through 2023. Conversely, in the case of YSU, page 40 of the audited statements shows that YSU will owe between $5.3-$5.8 million per year in principal plus interest on their long term debt through 2023. Please do explain to me how having debt payments 5.5 times that of YSU over the next decade is better for Akron? You really have me scratching my head on that one. That is fat that they simply cannot trim; they must pay it.
Oh, and for the fun of it, you can read about the state of each University's athletic program in these reports. Akron's is on page 73 (of the PDF), while YSU's is on page 75 (of the PDF).
Long story short, it is nice to get big beautiful new buildings, but in the long run, you are certainly going to have to pay the price. In the case of Akron, they are really going to be feeling the effects of this debt for years to come.
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Yep, I'm with you. I hate debt and don't do it myself. BUT, Akron has considerable more income than YSU and has the money to finance the debt at historic low interest rates. All parties concerned have made a judgment that they can handle the debt and if pinched, Akron, being a larger school with more of everything does in fact have more to cut if a problem arises. YSU does not. In this case, as in most businesses, size matters. The big corporation (Akron) has more to work with and better flexibility than a Mom & Pop (YSU). The picture you paint is suggesting that JT would be a fool not to take the YSU job instead of Akron. I'm leaning that he plans to take the Akron job and use the offer of the YSU job to leverage Akron for top $$$$$$$$$$$ as their next Prez.
Didn't bother to read the athletic stuff. This was about Tressel and what job he'll take. I suspect its Akron, despite your review.
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BTW, I should have mentioned that at JT age, I don't see him being around for an extended "career" as a Prez. Both Akron and YSU will be around for a long time to come, despite the debt, declining enrollment ( YSU) and in urban areas of decay as commuter schools. Tressel has maybe a 5 -10 year horizon. He'll ride off into the sunset with his white hat on. That is the way both schools look at him. Just checked the Akron list of candidates and guess who the only non-doctor candidate applied ?
;D ;D ;D
The skids are greased !
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ValleyTalk,
Thanks. As expected, Paladin does not believe you :D but I learned a lot. 30 million in yearly debt service. Incredible. That explains Akron's 10% slashing of their academic programs, and that still won't be enough. Good Luck indeed to the guy who takes their job.
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Akron chooses Tressel as one of three finalists, today!
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And a YSU finalist today.... fascinating.
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OK, now I am really, really angry. Martin Abraham was, by far, the most qualified "traditional" candidate on that list. If you have been following the presidential search here on this thread, you know that Let's Talk and I have been campaigning for Tressel as president and Abraham as provost, with Abraham receiving excellent pay and complete control over academic affairs. Well, our trustees failed to name Abraham to the list of six finalists. He is light years superior to the nonentities that made the cut with Tressel, including the obligatory woman, someone that works for NASA, and another that runs a freakin' school for the blind! What do these trustees plan to do if Tressel accepts the Akron job, now that they have thoroughly alienated their best academic choice? I guess this is what happens when you allow politicians, Republican and Democrat, to appoint people to vital positions of power.
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OK, now I am really, really angry. Martin Abraham was, by far, the most qualified "traditional" candidate on that list. If you have been following the presidential search here on this thread, you know that Let's Talk and I have been campaigning for Tressel as president and Abraham as provost, with Abraham receiving excellent pay and complete control over academic affairs. Well, our trustees failed to name Abraham to the list of six finalists. He is light years superior to the nonentities that made the cut with Tressel, including the obligatory woman, someone that works for NASA, and another that runs a freakin' school for the blind! What do these trustees plan to do if Tressel accepts the Akron job, now that they have thoroughly alienated their best academic choice? I guess this is what happens when you allow politicians, Republican and Democrat, to appoint people to vital positions of power.
I have not seen the list but all I can say is that I agree.
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Wick, I was as shocked as you that Abraham did not appear on the six list. However, do you remember it was said on the news when a list of six and an additional list of three was being selected, each person would be asked if they wished to be considered? I am wondering "IF" Abraham declined. Could be very interesting IF Akron, tomorrow (or any time prior to YSU's choice, took JT. Not the end of the world, I am sure, but interesting.'
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Wick, I was as shocked as you that Abraham did not appear on the six list. However, do you remember it was said on the news when a list of six and an additional list of three was being selected, each person would be asked if they wished to be considered? I am wondering "IF" Abraham declined. Could be very interesting IF Akron, tomorrow (or any time prior to YSU's choice, took JT. Not the end of the world, I am sure, but interesting.'
Judging by his reaction in the media, I don't think he declined at all as he was never given the option to decline. Perhaps he was on the "B" list, but it is safe to say he was definitely not on the "A" list.
We still do not know if he will be chosen as the provost at NIU. Perhaps what is more interesting is the fact Mr. Abraham applied for the NIU position on March 2nd, a full 2 weeks after Dunn resigned as YSU President. Read his application, if you have a lot of time to kill, here: http://www.niu.edu/u_council/Provost_Search/Abraham-CV.pdf
Perhaps that is something to ponder? Who knows.
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For the benefit of those who live out-of-town, Tressel was named one of the three finalists for the position after the weekend interviews. The other two are the woman from Southern Oregon and the man from UNC-Wilmington. Neither of those "candidates" could match up with Martin Abraham in any type of objective contest. Heaven help these trustees, and heaven help YSU, if they bypass Tressel or if Tressel chooses Akron instead.
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People I talk to around Akron are still confident he is their next Prez....
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Looks like YSU might end up with egg on their face if Tressel decides on Akron.
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As a casual observer, I would put the odds at 70% Akron, 20% YSU, and 10% something else.
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"On the topic of finances, Tressel said the university [AKRON] budget isn't where it needs to be, and university officials need to pledge to produce a sound spending plan for fiscal year 2016."
Hmmm, I wonder what he could be alluding to? Perhaps the massive debt, athletics?
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He is already on record that if selected as Akron's Prez, he will cut what he perceives as overstaffing in administration, according to the Beacon Journal.
He should know , lol
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If he's up for both jobs what are the salary comparisons? I haven't read any articles where they talk about salary but I would think if Akron offers a lot more than he'd take that job.
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kforbs,
If it came down to money it would be no contest. Akron pays their current president $500,000 compared to our $375,000. But consider that Tressel is a multi-millionaire. He also is in line for a monster retirement from the state which will be based upon his three highest years of service...the million dollar years as OSU football coach. Presidential salary at either place would not impact his retirement.
I just wonder what benefits Akron sees from choosing Tressel. Any university that hires a famous football coach as president will become a laughingstock in the academic community from coast to coast. I am prepared to endure such ridicule because I believe that Tressel has unique fund-raising and public relations talent....for the Mahoning Valley. Does that talent transfer to Akron? I don't know. Akron shares a metro area with Kent State. Akron is also fifty miles closer to Columbus and has a deeper case of the OSU illness than we do. Significantly, it was the "money crowd" from the Mahoning Valley that started the Tressel push. I am not aware of anything similar in metro Akron. Indeed, there is evidence to suggest that the "money crowd" in Akron supports their university at a less impressive rate than their counterparts here support YSU. Consider that the YSU endowment is actually larger than Akron, despite our obviously smaller size. Also, Akron's massive long term debt, 5.5 times more than ours, suggests that the money crowd in Akron gives less and forces that university to borrow more. Don't get me wrong. Tressel has considerable talent and would work very hard. But could he deliver OUTSIDE the Mahoning Valley? That remains an open question.
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kforbs,
If it came down to money it would be no contest. Akron pays their current president $500,000 compared to our $375,000. But consider that Tressel is a multi-millionaire. He also is in line for a monster retirement from the state which will be based upon his three highest years of service...the million dollar years as OSU football coach. Presidential salary at either place would not impact his retirement.
I just wonder what benefits Akron sees from choosing Tressel. Any university that hires a famous football coach as president will become a laughingstock in the academic community from coast to coast. I am prepared to endure such ridicule because I believe that Tressel has unique fund-raising and public relations talent....for the Mahoning Valley. Does that talent transfer to Akron? I don't know. Akron shares a metro area with Kent State. Akron is also fifty miles closer to Columbus and has a deeper case of the OSU illness than we do. Significantly, it was the "money crowd" from the Mahoning Valley that started the Tressel push. I am not aware of anything similar in metro Akron. Indeed, there is evidence to suggest that the "money crowd" in Akron supports their university at a less impressive rate than their counterparts here support YSU. Consider that the YSU endowment is actually larger than Akron, despite our obviously smaller size. Also, Akron's massive long term debt, 5.5 times more than ours, suggests that the money crowd in Akron gives less and forces that university to borrow more. Don't get me wrong. Tressel has considerable talent and would work very hard. But could he deliver OUTSIDE the Mahoning Valley? That remains an open question.
Thanks Wick just the explanation I've been looking for. The vindy articles and local news just hasn't cut as usual. I think you are right though, he doesn't really have much appeal in Akron other than former OSU coach. Here he is loved and even though the pay is lower YSU is in a better financial situation.
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As a casual observer, I would put the odds at 70% Akron, 20% YSU, and 10% something else.
I have different take on this. The two other finalists in Akron are very strong and are from the academic side. The faculty union was quoted to be not in favor of Tressel. The faculty in Akron just received a 6% paid raise last year. It showed you their influence on the administration.
However, at YSU, one of the finalist has lots of issues at SOU and the other one is also a finalist at another institution. The faculty at YSU has been neutral on Tressel and the faculty carries no weight at all for this board (the academic senate recommended to the BOT to include a faculty from each college to join the search committee and the faculty were totally excluded). Therefore, the faculty is not a factor here at YSU.
The Youngstown community has been very supportive for Tressel. I am sure the BOT is aware of the of this. If Tressel can raise funds for YSU and attract students, it might get YSU out of the financial problems. On the academic side, I think he will hire a strong provost to run the academic side of the university.
I think the odds are 20% Akron, 50% YSU and 30% others.
If he received offers from both schools, it will be 70% Akron since he is working there. If he chooses YSU, it is because of the community support which makes his fund raising easier and because YSU's long term debt situation is better than Akron.
We will find out next week.
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For what it is worth, the student government at Akron today expressed their preference for the provost from Toledo. These students probably sense, correctly, that Tressel would be of little value to them since his strengths are in another geographic area and would not transfer. So no support from the faculty or students. What Akron trustees believe is another matter.
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For what it is worth, the student government at Akron today expressed their preference for the provost from Toledo. These students probably sense, correctly, that Tressel would be of little value to them since his strengths are in another geographic area and would not transfer. So no support from the faculty or students. What Akron trustees believe is another matter.
By reading their message boards, they have a lot of apprehension about picking Tressel. They in no way like the fact that Akron is competing with Youngstown State for a Presidential hopeful. As a YSU grad that knows Akron grads, this idea that Akron, or Kent for that matter, are superior institutions than YSU is far from the truth. Each school has its strengths and weaknesses, but just because one is double the size of the other does not make it any better.
Still think Tressel selects YSU over UA if given the option.
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Wick, can you provide us some links stating Akron's Student Gov and Faculty support Toledo's provost?
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IMHO....Tressel is the best choice for either school. What all colleges, universities.....heck..any instituion (public or private) needs is a leader. A winner!!!
The academic credential argument is nonsense. All organizations are best run thru sound leadership and practical business protocols. The idea is to win. In every arena.
The business of America....(Rodney Dangerfield movie "Back to School") .....is business. As silly and as simple as that sounds.....those of us who create jobs....to pay taxes...and keep big institutions afloat.......understand this.
Fairness is in the opportunity.......not the outcome.
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Valley,
Channel 21 interviewed the Akron student government rep for Monday's newscasts. That body definitely expressed support for the Toledo provost to their Board of Trustees. For faculty, I was referring to the comments from Double ET.
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It is not going to affect me personally one way or the other who is hired. With that being said, as an Alum and person who still cares about YSU, I hope Jim Tressel is named the next President by the end of this week. I think he would do an excellent job at YSU. I believe he would do his job as President with the same amount of passion and success that he did as a football coach. He is a highly intelligent person, and he will surround himself with people who are able to have success.
I believe it is also important to hire a person who has the backing of many, not all, of the most prominent and wealthy "movers and shakers" in the Y-town area. These people bring with them support and MONEY. And, with the level of funding for Higher Education decreasing, it is more important than ever to have a President at YSU that knows how to win people over. Tressel has the ability to win people over, and I also believe as President he would be the kind of person who is highly visible and approachable to the student's.
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Breaking News! This might be BIG!
Three unions on campus, INCLUDING the faculty, have just endorse Tressel for president. On Monday, Tressel stated that the faculty would be a crucial determinant if by some chance both schools selected him. Well....!
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Breaking News! This might be BIG!
Three unions on campus, INCLUDING the faculty, have just endorse Tressel for president. On Monday, Tressel stated that the faculty would be a crucial determinant if by some chance both schools selected him. Well....!
Breaking News......!!!!
Unions get something right for change.. ;D ;D ;)
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Breaking News! This might be BIG!
Three unions on campus, INCLUDING the faculty, have just endorse Tressel for president. On Monday, Tressel stated that the faculty would be a crucial determinant if by some chance both schools selected him. Well....!
Breaking News......!!!!
Unions get something right for change.. ;D ;D ;)
I am as stunned as you. Business Journal saying this morning YSU could make a decision very quickly in favor of Tressel.
Never thought unions would support Tressel.
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Breaking News! This might be BIG!
Three unions on campus, INCLUDING the faculty, have just endorse Tressel for president. On Monday, Tressel stated that the faculty would be a crucial determinant if by some chance both schools selected him. Well....!
Breaking News......!!!!
Actually, the endorsement was by the union presidents and not the unions. I have seen the press release. Vindy either got it wrong or tried to sensationalized the story.
As I have indicated before, I did not observe any strong supports or objections from the faculty members. I still maintain that the faculty members are somewhat neutral.
I watched all three presentations. It is clear to me that all three candidates stressed cost cutting to satisfy the BOT.
However, Tressel was only one spoke about how budget could be balanced via cost control and revenue enhancement. IMO, revenue enhancement includes increase enrollment, student retention, funding raising, research grants, tuition & fees.
As a former engineering manager of a large automaker, I can speak with my past experience. We stressed cost cutting to the point that we all used to say among our ranks that it would cut us from existence. We reduced researching, product development, and product safety margins. We also knew that, I as a result, we would have quality problems within 5-10 years.
It eventually happened. The company went bankrupt and in the last 6 months, it initiated the largest recall in the company's history.
I hope YSU does not go down that path. YSU has been reducing critical classes to a point where many students had to wait another year in order to take that class. As a result, since they could not graduate in a reasonable time, they dropped out and transferred to other colleges.
Since this is a website for YSU sports, I will not post this in the future. I posted it because of the Tressel issue and what/how he might impact the YSU sports in case he became the president of this university.
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I was mistaken. Vindy got it right in today's newspaper that union chiefs back Tressel. Sorry, Vindy. I think some of the TV stations got in wrong last night.
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The Unions obviously see his potential ability to bring in money which is what they need. More money for the school, more classes, more students, maybe a pay increase, etc.
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http://www.vindy.com/news/2014/may/08/significant-announcement-coming-university-akron/
it appears we will have an answer soon...
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WOW! They pick Toledo Provost Dr. Scarborough!
Come on down Jim Tressel!
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Yeah just barely saw that. The feed was awful!
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So why did our trustees spend all morning debating without a resolution? Does this not fall into the category of "no brainer?" The only valid reason for bypassing Tressel was monumental opposition from the faculty. Obviously that did not happen. If these people pick one of the nonentities instead, two things will happen.
First, we will experience another round of labor chaos as the unions, rightly or wrongly, will believe that Tressel would have met them half-way and that the trustees snubbed Tressel because they wanted an anti-union tool. Second, good luck getting anything out of the "money crowd" who pushed Tressel's candidacy in the first place. Trustees, get off your butts and follow the mandate of this community!
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It all adds up. C'mon down interstate 76 Jim.
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So I just read the vindy article that the board came out with no decision and doesn't know what to do next. Really? I guess they don't want Tressel to be the next Prez?
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The lawyers might be negotiating the contract as we speak. Now that Akron has picked their president, there is not a great urgency for YSU to move fast. BOT might be discussing the contract agreement at tomorrow morning's meeting setting the stage for the 6 pm announcement.
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So I just read the vindy article that the board came out with no decision and doesn't know what to do next. Really? I guess they don't want Tressel to be the next Prez?
Tressel will be announced YSU President tomorrow morning. ---- Per multiple sources I know.
3:45pm announcement by YSU of an emergency meeting tomorrow was dead giveaway.
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He was offered the job and he accepted according to sources. Announcement tomorrow
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They made the announcement this morning. I for one am happy about it. This can only help YSU.
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WOOO HOOOOOOOOOO! First order of business is get a new coach.
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WOOO HOOOOOOOOOO! First order of business is get a new coach.
he is president ...not AD. Won't be in the job description.
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WOOO HOOOOOOOOOO! First order of business is get a new coach.
he is president ...not AD. Won't be in the job description.
I agree, but he could "influence". I was being facetious.
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Now the real fun begins!
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Per FootballScoop.com, Akron offered him the job, he declined and sought the YSU position.
Bob Hannon just reiterated that on 570 WKBN. That should quiet a lot of the critics that he was not good enough to be their President.
That is VERY TELLING.
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Per FootballScoop.com, Akron offered him the job, he declined and sought the YSU position.
Bob Hannon just reiterated that on 570 WKBN. That should quiet a lot of the critics that he was not good enough to be their President.
That is VERY TELLING.
Really? WOW! Is this true?
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Shout out to Randy Dunn. Thanks for clearing the way for YSU to get a real president.
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The Plain Dealer is also reporting today that Tressel was offered the YSU job yesterday, then called Akron to take his name out of consideration. These multiple sources refute the idea that Tressel would have chosen Akron over YSU.
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Shout out to Randy Dunn. Thanks for clearing the way for YSU to get a real president.
Those that like Tressel should send Dr. Dunn a Thank You card! ;D