Q & A with incoming chancellor Gray-Little

By Hannah DeClerk

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Bernadette Gray-Little will become the 17th chancellor at the University August 15 after Chancellor Robert Hemenway steps down June 30. Gray-Little is now the executive vice chancellor and provost at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She spent a few minutes with The Kansan to discuss her plans and how it feels to be a Jayhawk.

Q: Why did you choose the University of Kansas?

A: Before I was even offered the position I tried to make an assessment of it. I decided that KU has a great reputation when it comes to diversity. It is a university that has a wide range of academics whose areas of diversity are consistent with experience. It is also a university where people want to be better than they are.

Q: What are your plans for the University and do they differ from those of other chancellors in the past?

A: Many of the plans do not differ but are a continuation. I am not going to do ‘this and this’ but I have many ideas. One thing I want to focus on is the graduation rate of undergraduates. I want to figure out the factors about why they are not graduating, and then look and support and focus. Another important idea is to improve the University’s research profile. I want a full range of research on campus and support increasing the research. I also would like to raise additional money for the research.

Q: How do you plan to interact and connect with students?

A: Excellent question. With the variety of groups you have to pay close attention. There are going to be organized ways such as open conversations with the students from time to time. I am also open to suggestions from students about ways for interactions. I want the students to know that I want to get to know the students.

Q: How does it feel being not only the first female chancellor, but also the first African-American chancellor at the University of Kansas?

A: I recognize it is different and important. The University has made a statement in a way and it is being appreciated. When I was in Lawrence the other day eating lunch I had many delighted women come up and congratulate me. To them, it is great

Q:Coming from the University of North Carolina, do you think you will become a Jayhawk basketball fan?

A: Absolutely. How could I not? I think people may see me cheering for the Jayhawks and never talk to me again.

Q: How does it feel to be an official Jayhawk?

A: Feels good. I have had a wonderful welcome. Everyone is open and positive with care and love for the University.

— —Edited by Ross Stewart

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