Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — University of Maine System Chancellor Richard Pattenaude was in Aroostook County make his first official visits to campuses here since stepping into the position earlier this summer. While here, Pattenaude spoke to faculty, staff, students and interested individuals on his plans for the future.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
UMS CHANCELLOR Richard Pattenaude visited UMPI and other universities in the system recently, speaking on the system’s economic health.
“I attended a trustees meeting in Fort Kent – my first visit since taking the position of chancellor. These meetings give me the opportunity to share information with the universities I serve,” said Pattenaude.
One of the first topics he discussed at the University of Maine at Presque Isle was the economic impact the university system has on the state’s economy.
“A recent economic impact statement, released this month, showed $600 million in expenditures by UMS campuses. It also showed UMS has a $1.5 billion impact on the state overall,” said Pattenaude.
According to Pattenaude, that translates to a return of $8.10 for every dollar invested by taxpayers in the system.
“Only $185 million is state appropriated, so that’s an $8.10 return on each dollar we invest,” said Pattenaude.
Pattenaude said UMS is in the process of looking at a multi-year efficiency effort, trying to see where money is being spent and how it can be spent more efficiently.
“At the campus level, we try to watch costs. I commend UMPI. They run a tight ship. It’s an attractive campus with good leadership,” said Pattenaude.
The UMS Web site is another cost-effective method being used to reach more people.
“We’re trying to make the UMS Web site more robust, with as much information as possible,” said Pattenaude.
The heart of Pattenaude’s job as chancellor is creating a consistent system and strong universities.
“I’m responsible for shaping the general direction (of UMS),” said Pattenaude.
One way to improve the system, said Pattenaude, is making sure each student graduates. Good retention programs are a key element for a successful university.
Campus also have an economic responsibility to the communities they serve.
“To strengthen the economy – all campuses have an important job there. A big piece is the basic research being done at UMO. UMPI is important too – to the economy of this area,” said Pattenaude.
Looking to the future, Pattenaude said UMS hopes to be among the greenest in the nation one day.
“Our system should be one of the greenest in the U.S., based on how we build buildings, uses resources, get our energy. I’m excited to see wind power coming to UMPI. Planning and discussion of that project is under way. President (Don) Zillman is to be commended,” said Pattenaude.
Being financially sustainable means maintaining costs, according to Pattenaude.
“We want to be rock solid. But that also means affordability,” said Pattenaude. “We have to have an affordable solution to be successful.”
Pattenaude said having a voice in higher education is essential to the state.
“We (UMS) have to be a key player in the dialog. This is a process shared with all campuses. This is something the presidents discuss with trustees at retreats,” said Pattenaude.
Pattenaude said this has been a learning experience for him as he visits the various campuses and hears from those he serves.
“This is a listening trip for me, as I talk with students and faculty in open forum. I’ve been pleased with what I hear. There’s been a lot of feedback,” said Pattenaude. “My message to UMPI is I’m pleased with the leadership of the institution. There’s a lot of optimism about the institution that makes it stronger and better.”
Pattenaude spoke briefly on bonds totaling about $43 million coming up for a vote this fall.
“About $2 million is earmarked for UMPI for renovations. UMPI faculty is eligible to apply for more than ever before. I hope people support them (the bonds),” said Pattenaude.
Pattenaude said the reason the bonds are so important is that if you look 20 years down the road, education will be essential for a stronger, better state.
“Strength will be gained by applying new technology to the trade/resource base. If you start with quality of place, its up to you to determine how to modernize industry and make the work force more efficient. Economic development can’t leave behind the traditions of Maine,” said Pattenaude, adding GrowSmart Maine is working to get the bonds passed for the economic future of Maine.
Pattenaude said it’s important to keep education affordable and have the financing available when needed.
“It’s all about retaining students. Campuses are providing more financial aid than ever before,” said Pattenaude. “Our marketing is designed to attract more students to each campus. Students tend to settle where they attend. Pres. Zillman has been working on strengthening admissions (at UMPI).”
The chancellor said he realizes how hard people work on campus and he doesn’t want to increase their (faculty and staff) workload.
“My job is to strengthen campuses, not expand the system. The people of Maine want us to be smart in how we handle our money. This is a very challenging time to be a chancellor, with high school classes downsizing and people interested in tax control. We (at UMS) want to focus more on fund-raising and providing quality universities. It takes partnerships to do that,” said Pattenaude. “Visiting campuses such as UMPI’s is very reassuring. At UMPI, I’ve gotten a sense of community and care that’s very real.”
