At a crowded reception Thursday, new Wright State University President Cheryl B. Schrader addressed campus for the first time since taking office July 1. In her speech, Schrader repeatedly acknowledged the university’s financial problems.
"While all of us would probably prefer to be on more sound financial footing at this time, I know that we can't afford to dwell on the mistakes of the past...rather we must learn from them."
Wright State is in the midst of budget crisis that has resulted in layoffs and program cuts. The school most recently cut over $30 million from its yearly budget.
Schrader said she’ll spend her first few months talking to members of the campus community. She’ll also be evaluating programs and services at Wright State, and deciding what to prioritize.
"Together we will highlight what we do best, and focus on those areas of excellence," she said. "What we must stop doing is trying to be everything to everyone."
Schrader comes to Wright State from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, where she spent 5 years as chancellor.