I could never be president. The immense pressure and expectations would have me running in the other direction. But Keene State College President Anne Huot doesn’t seem phased by the work that sits in front of her.
Huot has said, on multiple occasions, she is here for the students. I must say this is refreshing as there is nothing worse than having someone in a leadership position who has ulterior motives. Unfortunately, we are all too familiar with this outside of KSC.
Huot has already shown how much this community really means to her. By talking to students and attending campus events, her presence reassures us that she is interested in making strong connections with us. This connection is extremely crucial and often non-existent with administration.
If students want something changed at KSC, we should feel comfortable to let the president know our concerns. It is important to realize the KSC faculty and staff are here for us. No student should ever feel like his or her voice is not being heard, or that he or she is not receiving the help and attention she or he needs in order to succeed.
Not only will Huot do her best as president, but I believe she will push KSC in a great direction — one that places value on opinions and having fun, but also working hard. We need a president that is able to mold and introduce changes. Think about how much the campus has changed since our first steps onto Appian Way. I can vouch for this. Throughout my five years here, I have never seen the college community be so school-spirited. Maybe it’s because of my involvement with The Equinox, but each day I hear of all the amazing possibilities this campus has to offer. The students here have a lot to be proud of. The hard work that generates in and outside of classrooms should be recognized and applauded. It’s okay to toot your own horn. Huot wants us to. When someone such as Huot believes so intensely in students’ abilities, anything is possible. We need that encouragement. We need to know someone cares about what we accomplish here. By working together, we choose to support each other. We create an environment that is positively beneficial to all.
I love KSC. But President Anne Huot loves it more. I am Pharrell-Williams-happy for Huot and her inauguration as the tenth president. More flash mobs and celebrations are to come for this caring community and caring president.
Brittany Murphy can be contacted at bmurphy@keene-equinox.com