Kennesaw State University president Sam Olens, in his first state of the university address Monday, asked faculty and staff for their help as he attempts to raise more money for various renovation projects and additional student housing on both campuses.
“There’s a lot to do and so much that I want to accomplish,” Olens said during a 20 minute speech at KSU’s Marietta campus. “I can’t do it alone. We must work together.”
Olens, who resigned as Georgia attorney general to become KSU’s president, said he’s met with more than 60 prospective donors and business partners since he took office in November. He also said he’s trying to get more research grants. Olens thanked state leaders for providing $5 million for renovations to the science lab on the Marietta campus.
Olens introduced several staffers, some new to KSU, who have been placed in top administrative positions to improve the university's operations. Several KSU administrators were fired before Olens was hired, for violating various financial and ethics guidelines. Olens also pledged greater transparency to students "where free expression of all opinions will be encouraged and nurtured."
Many students and faculty opposed Olens becoming KSU's president, citing his positions as attorney general, particularly regarding the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community.
Olens is scheduled to give a similar address at the Kennesaw campus on Wednesday.
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