U of M ad disappointing

submitted by Helene J. Lusa, EdD

April 24, 2006 —

As a new faculty member in the College of Education, I have enjoyed reading the Valley Vanguard. The writing is crisp; the editorial comment is thoughtful; and, the paper provides good information, especially to those of us eager to learn more about SVSU. However, my delight turned to disappointment last week when I saw the full-page ad for education programs at another state university published in the Vanguard.

I was disappointed for two reasons. My impression is that SVSU is a university family characterized by knowledgeable and helpful people deeply committed to students and their education.

In such a university family, one group does not make a decision that negatively impacts another. As a former newspaper advisor during my career in K-12 public education, I also know that publishing such an ad is not an issue of freedom of the press or academic freedom, it is simply a case of getting some major revenue for the publication. I'm disappointed that someone made a bad decision for a buck. I certainly hope the editorial board will discuss such decisions and develop a policy for the future.

Perhaps the Valley Vanguard staff needs a reminder that the SVSU College of Education serves the needs of schools in the mid-Michigan area by providing an outstanding education for aspiring and practicing teachers and administrators.

Helene J. Lusa, EdD Assistant Professor Educational Leadership and Services