Stump’s impact on student life far-reaching
In the wake of Ron Stump’s decision to resign, those close to the vice chancellor of Student Affairs are emphasizing the leadership, student-centered mentality, and high standards that he embodied throughout his eight years on the job.
Stump will resign his post on July 1, 2008 to serve as interim director of the Alumni Association.
“He has been an extremely important advocate for students,” said Susan Villalobos-Boehm, assistant to the vice chancellor of student affairs.
Stump’s responsibilities include overseeing the more than 30 departments under the Student Affairs division including the Office of Admissions, Housing and Dining Services, Wardenburg Health Center and the Recreation Center.
“He has a pretty big burden and he bears it very well,” UCSU Tri-executive Hadley Brown said.
Brown, a senior English major, works closely with Stump. She said she often receives e-mails from him sent at 5 or 6 a.m., a detail she said speaks to how hard the vice chancellor works for students.
Brown said that Stump also maintains contact with the tri-executives through weekly meetings where discussions include student fees, fire safety, campus security, and the distinction between hate speech and protected speech at the university.
“The only reason we wouldn’t address an issue is because we don’t have time to talk about everything,” Brown said.
She also emphasized Stump’s receptivity to the desires of students and his strong defense of student autonomy.
“He’s really an ally of students,” she said.
One major issue Stump has worked on over the past several years is the university’s relationship with Greek organizations. Stump worked to encourage responsible alcohol use in social settings after the death of Lynn Gordon “Gordie” Bailey Jr. in 2004.
Although there have been mixed reactions to Stump’s work, Director of Greek Life John Henderson said the outcome of his efforts has been positive.
Henderson said pressure from Stump and Student Affairs forced Greek organizations at CU to make changes that included the elimination of hazing and re-prioritizing of academics.
He said he is encouraged by Stump’s efforts to challenge and encourage Greek organizations to set high standards for themselves.
“Ron really showed leadership and continues to even though it’s difficult,” Henderson said. “Now I think our Greek community is stronger than it was before.”
Villalobos-Boehm said that on top of a long list of administrative responsibilities, Stump manages to hold an overall picture of student life and maintain an effort to personally connect with the students he is here to serve.
“When he walks across campus he says hello to everyone,” she said.
Looking toward the future, both Villalobos-Boehm and Henderson said they expect great things when Stump joins the Alumni Association.
“Ron is very passionate about the university’s relationship with alums,” Henderson said. “I think we will see some exciting things happen.”
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Emery Cowan at Emery.Cowan@thecampuspress.com.
