Editorial: CCNY to Receive a Transfusion?

The CUNY system in general and City College in particular are at a fairly important crossroads. The college has an interim president at a time when calls are being made for drastic changes that could profoundly affect the basic mission of the school.

A recent New York Times article reported that CUNY Chancellor Matthew Goldstein was reluctant to even appoint a permanent CCNY president until a new mission statement had been drawn up for the school and went on to quote him as saying that "City College needs a transfusion, and it is going to get one."

Those are both bold statements signaling the type of administration he probably has in mind for our school. We want to know what kind of transfusion he has in mind. If it's one that commits the necessary resources to fixing the school's many maintenance problems and boosting the services we so desperately need to learn-increased library hours, computer access, course sections, and educational support services for those who need them-we welcome those plans.

Unfortunately, Chancellor Goldstein probably has other plans in mind. Former President Yolanda Moses lost her job and nobody really misses her. She didn't fight for the students or school and she didn't have the stomach or will to implement the agenda of the CUNY board quickly enough. She ended up without any friends and was expendable.
The Messenger has been highly critical of the Moses administration simply because it was never willing to fight for the rights of it's own students, faculty, and staff. While there are a lot of parts to a college, students should always be the primary focus: without them, there are no classes, faculty, or administrators.

While calling for Herman Badillo's removal from the CUNY board, we extend a welcome and a challenge to Chancellor Goldstein and acting President Roman. The Messenger is on the side of City College and CUNY students and faculty. The long term health of the college depends on how well the faculty is able to do their job of educating us and how many future students will have access to that education.

Chancellor Goldstein is right about one thing, however: the college and CUNY need strong and effective leadership now more than ever, and that will mean taking sides. It will take courage to stand up for the students and the school, especially in today's political climate. We challenge the incoming administration to rise to the task.