Words of Advice for UCSD's New Chancellor

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Words of Advice for UCSD's New Chancellor

By Jan Jennings | October 11, 2004

UCSD’s new chancellor, Marye Anne Fox, has visited every continent, been granted honorary status as a one-star general for a day, and, in 1984, been cited by Esquire Magazine as one of “The Best of the New Generation - Men and Women Under Forty Who are Changing America.” She also has been awarded dozens of accolades, including the Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship and election to the National Academy of Sciences.

Still, even with such an impressive resume, there is always more to learn and experience. So, to welcome our new chancellor, who hails from duties as chancellor of North Carolina State University, we sought pearls of advice from faculty, staff and students about what she might do as she settles in to her new life at UCSD. From recommending the best place to grab a cup of espresso to reminding her to keep the interest of students always foremost in her mind -- advice-givers offer their two cents.

“Take advantage of the sun and the beach. Just because we’re facing massive budget cuts doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get out every once in a while. Learning to surf would give you instant street cred.”
— Bryan Tsao, opinion editor,
The Guardian; second year student, Sixth College

“Carry On! We have an excellent start here at UCSD, and the new chancellor’s instincts are right on the mark.”
— Herb York, founding chancellor of UCSD

“Faculty are often asked to take on new tasks, but, somehow, we never get to shed old tasks. How about not creating any new committees unless you simultaneously disband an old one? Also, small signs of appreciation go a long way. I once got a thank you note from a dean who noticed my good teaching evaluations: I was so stunned, I pinned it on my door, and it kept me upbeat for months!”
— Naomi Oreskes, associate professor, Department of History

“For fun, for respite, for inspiration, and for insight into 24 years of contemporary art, discover UCSD’s very own Stuart Collection. It’s an adventure every time. And even though we know you don’t need it, there’s always the smart water of Michael Asher’s fountain just outside your door.” (Campus folklore has it that the fountain — a Stuart Collection installation by Asher — spouts “smart water.” Students are said to drink from it before important exams.)
— Mary Beebe, director,
John Baldessari, artist, Stuart Collection

“Do not eat the corn-husk wrapping on the tamales.”
— Jorge Huerta, Chancellor’s Associates professor of Theatre

“Let your vice chancellors lead the way and stand firmly behind them. This will come in handy if an angry mob is ever headed in your direction.”
— Judy Lane, director, Special Events & Protocol

“Just when you are beginning to think you really know your way around, and just when you least expect it, you’ll bump into yet another construction fence.”
— Patrician Valiton, assistant to the chair, Department of Literature

“The Art of Espresso coffees, teas, snacks, and lunch cart on the southeast corner of Mandeville Center offers great coffees and camaraderie indoors and out! Owners Patti and Sam each give their scores on latest flicks as well!”
— Carolyn Passeneau, director, Promotions/House Management, Department of Theatre and Dance

“Please continue to acknowledge individual staff members with those old-fashioned notes with a handwritten signature, especially when they do something nice for you personally. I treasure the one President Dynes sent me when I worked on the Web pages for the Leadership Alliance Diversity Conference.”
— Annie Flager, database administrator/data analyst,
Business & Financial Services

“Make sure to ask for input from students; we are such a diverse group that it is tough to please everyone. But, remember that we value someone who takes an interest in our interests. And don’t forget to visit the beach. It will make you understand why you are alive.”
— Hillary Elder, second year student, Earl Warren College

“Call me and make a song request for the chimes atop Geisel Library. I’ll climb up onto the roof and sit at the piano-like keyboard and play your request at noontime later that week … (yes, there really are chimes up there — it is not a recording).”
— Scott Paulson, university carillonneur

“UCSD could benefit from some affinity building strategies for undergraduates, alums, and the community. By the way, did you know that UCSD football remains undefeated?”
— John Turk, director, UCSD Bookstore

"Allow us the opportunity to fall in love with you as we did with President Dynes! Let's act as a team to keep UCSD special! UCSD is a big part of who we ALL are. Now, after all of this shoulder-rubbing, don't be a traitor as Dynes was -- and leave us (just kidding!)"
— Bobbie Gray, advisor/career networking coordinator,
Career Services Center

“To expand your wardrobe and pick up great bargains, shop at the International Center’s Resale Shop. And, better yet, to help increase funds available for international grad and study abroad scholarships, donate all the extreme weather clothing you no longer need to the Resale Shop — after all, you aren’t in North Carolina anymore!”
— Mary Dhooge, director,
International Center

“Always keep in mind that no matter how great things are, there’s always room for improvement.”
— Jenn Pae, Associated Students president, 2004-2005; senior,
Revelle College

“My advice to you is to keep the chancellor’s 5K run/walk and train well!”
— Emily Marx, advisor,
Student Organizations