BUFFALO, N.Y. — Dr. Chance Glenn is excited to lead Buffalo State University when he takes the helm next July.
Why Buffalo State University? Dr. Glenn said. "I'm attracted to opportunities that do something that matters."
It's an opportunity he saw at Buffalo State. He is well aware of the need to address student retention and enrollment at the university.
"Retention is probably one of the strongest influence and components of enrollment. We will be attacking that head on," he said.
He would like to try and transform the university into a place that is known for being a home for the students.
"I want that reflected throughout, up and down that the students matter," Dr. Glenn said. "This is a place that is there for them, whatever challenges they may have, as they come and navigate their academic career path, we're there to help them along and that messaging and that action behind the messaging are things that will help."
Dr. Glenn understands that in order to retain some students, it's about academics and finances.
The budget deficit will be a big issue to tackle. He is prepared to dig into the numbers and understand more.
"I have to get in there and see what's going on and understand the structure a lot better. I've been in communication and working with the interim-president. I'm going to look forward to working with her as we transition to address those specific areas. I mean they they have to be addressed. They have to be dealt with," Dr. Glenn said.
"I understand that, so I'm going to be coming in there, rolling my sleeves up, you know, proverbially and get to work on those issues. I can't say about cuts and things like that at this time. It's just too early to to talk about."
Dr. Glenn is a husband and father of four college-age students.
A community focus appears to be in the blueprint for the incoming president.
"I look forward to drafting a strategy together with the community there and with the constituents on the campus. If we can anchor things around creativity and innovation and I'm not just talking about high tech stuff," he said.
He has a background in engineering and technology.
"There's a number of beautiful creative aspects to Buffalo State that exist right now and programs and the liberal arts, social sciences, and performing arts. There are ways that you can bring that together in a creative and innovative type of community," Dr. Glenn said.
He is an inventor and a big Star Trek fan. "I keep a a Starship enterprise nearby just as an inspiration," he said.
During the interview he talked about warp drive.
He said: "the the National Science Foundation, is trying to develop warp technology. Now, I know it sounds far out there, but we have a process that you know we've looked at that may have potential, and we've been funded to chase it, so I'd love to be able to bring that kind of research and technology to Buff State as well."
When asked about his leadership style, Dr. Glenn said "collaborating, communicating and building consensus" will be his style.
The new president is perhaps the first Grammy-nominated president in the history of Buffalo State. "I love to sing. I grew up singing," he said.
He's written songs, recorded music and is proud of the Praise project First Fruits.
Don't be surprised if you see the new president singing on campus in 2024.