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Posted by: On: 8/25/2008

Comment Title: Cronyism
Murano is a joke as president. She screwed up the College of Ag and now she's running the University. Yikes! BTW - I heard recently that Murano has aspirations of running for governor of Texas. I wonder if that is why she's doing all these favors for Mr. Goodhair. Just a thought.

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Posted by: Dan '00 On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: the process (or lack thereof) is the problem here
If I were Gen. Weber, even I'd be disappointed that the national search did not occur. It smacks of politicism and favoritism. It discredits the great achievments and qualifications that he possesses. This really is unfortunate. I am not qualified to judge his resume, but I can tell you this "closed door" approach is beneath what a world renowned public university should have in place. Dr. Murano, I am disappointed in your action here. It's not the choice. It's how you went about making it.

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Posted by: Rock T. Aggie On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Letter to the prez...
Dear Dr. Murano, Please quit immediately. Sincerely, Rock T. Aggie

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Posted by: Aggie '80 On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Brett '07
Grow up, son. Maybe Weber is competent, maybe he's not, it really doesn't matter. Because of the cronyism rampant in this "leadership" we'll never know if there was someone better. How will you like it if you get passed over for a plum job in the AF because the guy in charge wants to give the job to his old bunkmate? Once that happens, let us know how you feel.

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Posted by: Brett '07 On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Olympics and Brain Surgery
Todd, while your analogies are nice and your total reliance on the “factual eyewitness accounts” of those at the meeting is unfortunate, I have to completely disagree. I’m not sure about your personal life experience’s, but while I may be youthful, I am also an officer in the USAF and have a little “first hand experience” about this so-called “yes-sir” business that I joined. What you fail to understand that while the military is about keeping this country safe and killing the bad guys it is also about the constant improvement of our people and their personal development. Those in charge of the military, my bosses, are constantly striving to meet our needs and relate to what we are going through. Being an Air Force guy, I can tell you that family is one of our highest priorities, and keeping them happy is a multi-million dollar operation, not unlike, say keeping parents of attending A&M children happy. So before you judge whether Gen. Weber is not “pro-diversity” please consider the diversity of the United States Military and then ask yourself, which has more people from all walks of life, A&M or the uniformed service. To me, that give’s him plenty of credibility to do this job in an outstanding way. GIG-EM AGS!!

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Posted by: Todd On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Brett, your youth is showing
Weber's resume is impressive but does not make him qalified to be VPSA. Micheal Phelps is a fantastic swimmer but that does not mean I want him performing brain surgery on me. The disparity is fields of competive swimming and surgery is pretty similar to themilitary and higher education. Working in an environment where you tell someone to do something and they have no choice but to say yes sir and the other end of the spectrum from working with faculty, students, and parents. The comments from the student below who had the meeting with Weber concerns me the most as it sounds like, if true, he is completely out of touch with the current Texas A&M, particluarly what she said about being able to communicate the concept of diversity.

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Posted by: Brett '07 On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Everyone of you Naysayer’s are Ridiculous
I am really having a difficult time reading all of these negative comments below. This is a person who, besides having an incredibly impressive resume ( I don’t think any of you grasp how difficult it is to make Colonel in the USMC let alone 3 Star), which tells me that this man is capable of far exceeding anything some other VPSA of joe-shmoe D-1 college with 20 yrs experience could do. Forget administrative experience…he’s got that. Forget leadership ability…he’s got that. Forget a diehard passion for this school…he’s got that. And forget the fear this man wont be able to relate to the students, because he’s been one and lived the wonderful 4 year event that being an A&M undergrad is. So if you were wondering if he’s going to be able to connect with you…yes, he’s got that. The students at the University should be incredibly honored that someone of this caliber want’s to spend his time making your life better! So Dr. Murano, even though I never had the pleasure of being on the campus while you were at the helm, I applaud your hire and your ability to bring one of our nations top minds to AGGIELAND, which will undoubtedly help lead this University into a bright future.

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Posted by: On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title:
Dear President Murano, Please consider this my application for your next open VP position of whatever. Here is my resume: Aggie, through and through.

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Posted by: Dave On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Welcome to Perryland
All you need to know about how decisions are made at TAMUS and TAMU is in this chart: http://tamus.edu/documents/pdfs/orgcharts/tamusor.pdf Look at who's at the top of the food chain. Compare to http://www.utsystem.edu/cha/files/UTSystemOrgChart.pdf Notice the difference? I know Regents are chosen by the Gov at both schools, but at least they have to be approved by the senate. Seems to me that Perry is pretty blatantly trying to make A&M his kingdom.

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Posted by: On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: Shared Goverance = Perry tells Murano what to do
1. Perry called the shot on this hire. 2. Murano is just a puppet. 3. Faculty, Staff and Students are been seen but not heard.

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Posted by: MJ On: 8/16/2008

Comment Title: What's done is done?
What an infantile comment. "Oh goodness gracious me, a bad thing was done, but we should roll over and let it happen!" I wouldn't want you backing me up in any sort of fight. What a pathetic day in the history of A&M. The president has shown that she will grovel at the feet of the guv. But after the farcical way she was "proclaimed" president, it's not surprising. I'm ashamed of her and more ashamed that the tenured faculty of this university sit around and let political hacks run the school. Hey profs -- one of the reasons you get tenure is to make sure that politicians like Perry don't run the University as their own little fiefdom. Get off your lazy butts and do something worthwhile while you have a chance. So far, he's put in his former chief of staff as Chancellor, his ex-lawyer as the head regent, his political crony as president and now, after four yers, he's found a job for his roomie. The school is becoming a laughingstock among those who have figured out what's going on. Get to work, faculty members.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Whats done is done
I am embarrassed to read all these comments and think that Aggies wrote them. I'm with you 110% that this was not handled in the right way, but this man and his wife are coming to A&M to support us and do what they can to make our time here more successful. Its not his fault! Grow up and deal with it. Live the Aggie Spirit!

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Posted by: Old, old Ag On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: moving forward
If new VP Weber recognizes the nationally regarded current staff in the VP's office (Dave Parrott, the Rebers, Ron Sass, Carol Binzer, for example), this could potentially turn out okay. Same goes for building on the already top #5 or better nationally ranked graduate program in student affairs administration in the College of Ed and Human Development. There's a lot of talent and national regard among some in the current ranks---combine that with some of VP Weber's strengths, esp. with regard to strengthening alumni/ae and academic ties, and it could be a winner. I wish VP Weber and the current StuAff professionals well in this transition and their important future mission! And many appreciate and recognize the talents among the current professional staff----thanks for what you do for our community, and for your loyalty to A & M, too.

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Posted by: Delena On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: One Student's Concern
I am truly concerned with Dr. Murano's decision to recommend General Joseph Weber as our VPSA. I feel as if this process, if it can be called one, was done in secrecy. By making a hasty decision during the summer months I feel as if it was done because the decision was bound to be protested if students were here. If students had the opportunity to know all details, this candidate would not fit what Texas A&M students need. I would like to review some comments made in Dr. Murano's letter issued on the 14th of August. I will be pulling information from the RHA Recommendation-General Weber. RHA is the representative body of on-campus residents, and I trust this organization's leadership to have my best interests in mind. 1. "Last month, with the assistance of the Division of Student Affairs, I hosted a couple of focus groups with students to get their perspective on the qualities they would like to see in the next Vice President. Over and over again, these students expressed the desire for someone who would be approachable and down-to-earth, inclusive of all students, passionate about his or her job, able to communicate and innovate, and exhibit tremendous care for students, while serving as a staunch advocate and champion for their best interests." Focus groups were conducted in the month of July when the population of A&M students on-campus is drastically reduced. These focus groups were hosted "a couple of times with students..." How can a truly representative view of the A&M student body be understood when the majority of these students are not present? These students provided feedback as to what they were looking for in the next VPSA. There are two qualities that I would like to focus on, "inclusive of all students" and "able to communicate and innovate". During the meetings with student leaders General Weber showed "little support for Greek Life and organizations besides the Corp of Cadets." This is not an inclusive view. Our students are not just Corp of Cadet members by a long shot. Our Greek Life and other organizations make up a very large percent of the student body. If General Weber is not supportive of them in my opinion he is not supportive of A&M as a whole. Another concern of the students was his communication skills. This is a very important skill in our society today. One must be able to articulate their thoughts to different groups and defend what they say. General Weber used outdated language in his meetings with the student leaders. He used such terms as "kids," "secretaries," and "barracks" when referring to on-campus living. These words have a very negative connotation and in the profession of Student Affairs it is a highly touchy subject. Student Affairs is about the development of students into globally-minded citizens. We are not "kids." By referring to on-campus living as "barracks" it gives a connotation of military quarters. 8,700+ students live on-campus (not including Corp of Cadets). This is an inaccurate representation. General Weber was also very vague when answering questions. When talking specifically about diversity he said "Treat everyone the way you want to be treated." This is the golden rule, not diversity. One in the Student Affairs profession must be able to articulate concepts, especially one so integral to this profession. 2. "And finally, we have a need for better inclusion and integration of graduate students, international students and other groups into the mainstream of student life at Texas A&M. Strengthening these areas form some of the basic tenets of Vision 2020 - our quest to be recognized as one of the top 10 public institutions of higher education in the country." Vision 2020 is obviously a very important vision to our university. All members of our faculty and staff need to be supportive of this initiative. All VPs should have a strong understanding of what Vision 2020 is for and what it entails. General Weber "lacked the incorporation of Vision 2020 in his answers." Bottom line-this is unacceptable. I want a VPSA that is going to work to make this institution its very best. 3. "Support for Mr. Weber has come via recommendations from numerous former students and friends of Texas A&M." Support from General Weber has not come from the students. Shouldn't the students have a say? After all, he is here to work on our development. If he does not have our support, he could meet resistance. Wouldn't that be a step backwards rather than advancing? Does Dr. Murano really care about the student input? I want to believe that she does, but the information I have been provided speaks to the contrary.

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Posted by: Old Ag On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Big M must stand for moron. How can you not want a national search for the Vice President of Student affairs? I want the very best leading our programs and making the best Aggies out there. Instead we just became the only major D-1 instition whose executive neither has a doctorate in education nor any experience. I certainly don't know Weber but by not allowing a search Murano has once again done the university and its students a major disservice. IMO she has also done the general a major disservice as well as he is now to be looked upon as Perry's affirmative action plan for classmates rather for his qualifications. If he is the best one for A&M, that should have been allowed to come out in the hiring process against other candidates. I am completely off of the Murano bandwagon now...

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Posted by: Big M, '83 On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: They got it right.
Elsa & Rick got it right. Good pick. And yes, I am NOT for establishing a national search committee everytime there is a position to fill. Not necessary. Find good, intelligent Ags and let them get after it with the people they choose. Now if Elsa & Rick will bring back bonfire I'll climb on their bandwagon!

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Posted by: Aggie Mom On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: REALLY
We are not sure Perry pushed this. this is the same candidate he tried to push Gates to hire! Difference, Gates ran a search and remained committed to shared governance. Really you want to pretend Perry did not influence this - SAD day - my heart aches for A&M and the men and women who will have their experience altered because a University president placed a political friend in a key position on campus. The VP of student affairs must have fundamental knowledge of student development , all students not just those that seek to have their minds torn down and built back up and filled with a message and direction that represents one view, one voice...This has a place in the military, not in in Higher Education...As an Aggie parent and former employee of A&M I am now assuming that desired qualifications for senior administration are : No advanced degree - no experience - two kids with rings and a a former roomie in a high profile, albeit, not powerful position... God Bless A&M in these troubled times...

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Fish '08
The military is a perfect background for a transition to student affairs. The average age group of active duty military matches exactly the average age group of undergraduate students. The military is the most progressive and diverse organization in the world. It involves diplomacy, community service, stewardship, discipline, academics, organizational and behavioral sciences, teamwork, facility management, fiscal projects, recruiting, retaining, evaluations, and everything in between. An individual who has spent a dozen years in student affairs might have a fraction of this experience.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: a leader is a leader is a leader
Does anyone else want to know what "hands-on" experience with student affairs constitutes? Is that really a professional career field at the University level. I mean, c'mon. A leader is a leader no matter how you slice it. How hard can it be to listen to students, consider their proposals, provide mentorship and help secure funding for student projects. I graduated from Texas A&M a few years ago and I can't think of a single interaction with the VP of Student Affairs. Can anyone else?

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: BS
I was in the meeting, too. Never happened. I think I would have noticed as my sister is a gay junior at A&M. Another stupid rumor from people who were no where near the rather good meeting with Mr. Weber.

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Posted by: RJ '06 On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Just because someone serves 36+ years in the Marine Corps does not make him qualified to be a VP. Heck, anyone should know that. Sure, he probably was a good Marine general. But heck, my dad served nearly the same amount but that doesn't make him qualified. Experience in the field he will be working with would and he, on all appearances, doesn't have it. Now, if it was something related to being in charge of the Cadet Corps then that is a whole other thing altogether. But, as usual at A&M, most people in charge are only out for themselves and rarely think of the students' concerns. Dr. Murano ran off WAY more people when she came the first year than Gates ever did. Apparently this followed her from D.C. But also, Perry does have his pull and I'm sure, more than sure, that has something to do with it. But I'd rather have someone with direct, hands-on experience in the field of student affairs rather than someone who served in the Corps, which really doesn't lend itself to a college setting. Oh well.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Not true
I was in the meeting with Weber and met with him and his wife during lunch after the meeting. That is absolutely not rue at all, I promise all of you. He was asked diversity questions, most of his responses basically boiled down to the golden rule. The accusation in not true in any way shape or form

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Talk on campus...
Several students who were in the "closed door meeting" with Weber have reported that he did, in fact, do the thumbs down motion in response to the question about gay students. A few students are even submitting an Open Records request on the summary that was given to President Murano after that meeting. The exact details should come out soon.

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Posted by: Millie On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Did Weber really say that?
The anonymous comment at the bottom of this list says: "...during a student forum, he responded to a question about how to treat gay students with a thumbs down and said “Next Question?”. This is a serious charge. If true it should disqualify him from the position. How about some details on when & where this occurred?

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Posted by: Millie On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Be very , very afraid
Does it bother anyone that the guv's spokeswoman Krista Piferrer said "The governor leaves those decisions to the board. But you know, the governor has always believed that anybody in his class [1972]is good by him -- is a quality student, a quality person. So we'll see what they decide." That explains a lot to me.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Everyone bashing Dr. Murano, her appointment to the presidency and her selections for staff, need to stop. It is childish. Every administrator has the right to choose their staff. I remember that not everyone was happy when Dr. Gates took over and he also made some changes that upset people. But he turned out great. Give these people a change you might like the results.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: The Main Concern
I think the main concern by the students, faculty, and staff at A&M is that the decision was made by Gov. Perry with zero input from the campus. It has less to do with who Weber is, where he comes from, or how little he cares for diversity or other current initiatives on campus, and more to do with the fact that no one was allowed to help choose who will be put into this powerful position. We have university rules that dictate how department heads, deans, the provost, and the president are chosen (all of which include representation from various constituencies on campus), but Weber was chosen primarily because he’s a friend and old roommate of the Governor? That’s just not right.

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Posted by: Clint Weber On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Congratulations...
Dad...Congratulations and Happy Birthday. I just read the article and some of the "posts". I am so proud of both you and Mom...you will both be great back at A&M...I know you will do well and that the school is in good hands as long as you are there. From Al Asad Airbase, Iraq- Semper Fi, Gig em, and Love, Clint Capt (USMC) P.S.- Looks like you made "the cut"! Keep the pullup bars in Spence Park warmed up for me please.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Something must have happended to increase his qualifications over the last four years, since he didn't make the first cut in 2004.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: More than Qualified
So many of you are stating that Lt. Gen. Weber (Ret.) is not qualified for this position, and that a member of the military has no experience with A&M students and their traditions. While that may be true, Lt. Gen. Weber (Ret.) was an aggie, and has children who were aggies, which in my opinion, makes that argument invalid. Yes, people are upset that a national search was not used to find an individual to fill this position; however, I have personally met Lt. Gen. Weber (Ret.), and I feel confident that he will do an amazing job. Yes, he is not an expert in student affairs, but he has been a Military Officer, in fact, a Military General, and obviously has the qualities expressed by the students (approachable, inclusive, passionate, knowledgeable of A&M, or he would not have made it as far as he has in the military. Do not think badly of him solely because the University did not conduct a nationwide search - that is no fault of his.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Politics, Politics, Everywhere...
Gov. Good Hair- that's funny... Don't know about this fellow Weber but it sure doesn't look right to me- all regents apparently cronies of Perry/Bush. They could soon change the name to reflect so- Texas A****** & Meathead University.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Joe Weber is as qualified as Earl Rudder was when he was picked as Vice President of A&M in 1958. Weber will do a great job.

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Posted by: Puzzled Aggie On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Why this position?
If he's such a great guy and Good Ole Ag, then why wasn't he considered for the football coach position, provost, vice president for research, or the deans positions in architecture, veterinary medicine & biomedical science, agriculture, or geosciences?

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Posted by: Class of 07 On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Experience
You're right. Just b/c Weber is a great Aggie and a good guy doesn't qualify him for the job. 36 + years leading young people in the service of our great country does. Any comment minimizing this experience is absurd. Phds are a dime a dozen. 3 Star Marine Generals are 9 out of 188,000.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Just because Weber is a great guy and an Aggie doesn't make him qualified for the job. His name was in consideration 4 years ago and he didn't make it past the first round. Murano, I mean the Governor, knew that the only way to get him into the position was a national search, which meant an out of state phone call. This a professional position that needs to be taken seriously not as a good ole boys club that it is turning into. A&M made tremendous strides under Dr. Gates, but is heading toward mediocrity under the current administration.

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Posted by: class of '67 On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Great pick!
It's about time we got back to our roots here at A&M. Weber is a great guy and a wonderful role model for all Aggies.

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Posted by: expat-txn On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: What traditions?
What traditions is she talking about that have been neglected?! Name one (other than Bonfire which is not going to happen any more due to out of control insurance/liability issues). What are they talking about?!?!

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Posted by: expat-txn On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Bad Bull, Army
Governor Good-Hair strikes again! What's the body count now? Sad times for A&M and the System, and likely more to come. Never let quality get in the way of cronysim, Rick & lackeys. You just keep living down to our expectations.

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Posted by: Class of '07 On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Good Pick!
What is this concept of "shared governance" in the student body? Weber may not be "nationally recognized" in student affairs, but he is certainly qualified to work with young people - more qualified in fact than any individual who has hidden behind an academic curtain their entire life. A&M used to be about loyalty, service, and tradition. Now it's about little rich kids whining about "shared governance". It's about time our school brought back one it's own - student affairs is important and if the students really want someone to fight for their interests, there's no better choice than a Marine Corps General.

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Posted by: -concerned On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Disappointed
As an Aggie and a student affairs professional, I'm very disappointed in this decision. A&M has a wonderful national reputation in student affairs associations. President Murano dismissed someone who was well respected nation-wide to appoint someone who won't even be familiar with these organizations, much less be known to their members, and who isn't going to be familiar with best practices in the profession. It tells me that President Murano just doesn't understand the Division of Student Affairs as a profession. And of course, the move is an insult to the student body and to the concept of shared governance. I hope the board will ask President Murano to reconsider her rash decision.

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Posted by: Rick On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: LtGen Weber is an outstanding choice
I met LtGen Weber when I was a boot Lt in the USMC. We were both in the BOQ in Hawaii. I was wearing an A&M shirt and he approached me and asked if I was an Aggie. We spoke for a while and I gradually realized that I was speaking to the Commanding General of 3MarDiv. His love for A&M was apparent and he couldn't wait to share that w/ a young Marine officer. Weber is an amazing man who is incredibly well respected by his Marines. He bleeds maroon and USMC crimson and gold. He has served his country well and will do a fantastic job for his alma mater. Great pick Pres Murano!

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Curious...
I would like to see empirical evidence of the neglect of Aggie traditions under the former VP of Sudent Affairs. All the "neglegted Aggie traditions" are measurable. More or fewer fish camps? Marroon out?Larger or lesser participation in the Big Event? Muster still observed? Silver Taps? If you choose malign another's performance you should be able to prove your accusations.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Puppet Government
From the appointment of Dr. Murano as President of A&M, it is apparent that A&M is being governed from Austin. Every member of the BOR and the Chancellor are cronies of Rick Perry. It is appaling that Dr. Murano would invoke Vision 2020. It is more like Vision 1947. It will be interesting to what happens with the VP for Research position. Hopefully not another inside job.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: process
Starting to be very concerned about our beloved University. Sure hope I can befriend George W. or Perry soon. Through a biased search, or heck, no search I can be choosen for a position that may influence many young minds and pays pretty well. Feels like we're back to the buddy system. Weber is probably more than quailfied...leading the Marine Corp...he could have Murano's job...but no search hurts him from the start.

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Posted by: James Sweatt On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: pick for VP
Totally ridiculous to pick someone with no experience in a crititcal position for our A&M students. There are professionals out in the world that would be a better fit. Another political move....more of the same. I understand making some changes with a new management team, but to bring someone in like this is totally irresponsible. Just because someone has been in the military doesn't make them an expert in A&M students and their affairs.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Weber is awesome. Just the other day my house was on fire and General Weber came in and saved all 18 of my kittens, my 4 puppies and my goldfish. He also then extinguished the flames before the fire department got there. Let's not refer to the comments section of the Eagle for "facts" about this guy please.

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Posted by: David C. Nelson On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title:
Once again, the damn dog gets more vetting than someone who fills an important campus vice presidency. Yep, from the inside looking out you can't explain it . . .

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: re: byebye shared governance
What student forum did Weber do this? It's been the complaint the students have not met with him, so when did this occur?

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Posted by: tom On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Good
I hope what the poster below me says is true.

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Posted by: On: 8/15/2008

Comment Title: Bye-bye Shared Governance
It will be hard to have shared governance when the Governor and the Chancellor are forcing President Murano to hire their old college buddies. Also, as for a candidate that is "approachable, inclusive, and passionate", Weber already showed that his is passionately NOT inclusive when, during a student forum, he responded to a question about how to treat gay students with a thumbs down and said “Next Question?”.

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