Linda R. Savitsky '70
Resides: Essex, Conn.
Work: Consultant and Owner, LRS Consulting
Major: Government
Alumni Activities: Alumni Admissions Representative; Alumni Association Council; VP of Alumni Association (1976-1978); Reunion Committee; Alumni-in-Residence Program; Jonas Clark Fellow; Legacy Society member
Given Clark's rich academic tradition, how do you envision your role as a trustee in shaping Clark University's mission in today's changing society?
The role of the Board of Trustees, as I envision, is to establish policies; work with the President and his team to seek excellence from all stakeholders-professors, students, nonacademic staff, alumni, members of the community and friends of Clark; to encourage the principles of a liberal-arts education; and to insure that the resources will be available for Clark students of the next generation.
I am honored that I was asked to be a candidate for Alumni Trustee. My career has been in finance positions in local, regional and state government. I have significant experience in serving on boards of government and nonprofit organizations. The highlight of my career was serving as president of the Government Finance Officers Association of the US & Canada, a professional association of over 15,000 members. These experiences have afforded me opportunities to work with individuals with diverse missions and skills, sometimes with competing agendas.
As a Clark Trustee, I will bring my skills as a consensus builder and active participant to the institution that has strongly influenced my career. One of my goals is to insure that the resources are there for Clark to continue for the next 100 years and beyond. We must build upon our success with the local community and encourage our students to be active contributors to their world. We must insure that the academic environment continues to attract and retain the finest professors and students. We must continue to encourage research in all disciplines. We must continue to attract and support a diverse student body. A Clark education should be available to those that meet the academic standards, but lack the financial means to attend. We need to be responsive to the constant changes in the world around us, yet never lose the personal touch that is such a part of each Clarkie's legacy.
In the world of higher education, Clark has earned a reputation of creating an environment where students learn in an academically rigorous environment, but take the time to contribute to the world. Last year I was invited to participate in the second Alumni-in-Residence program. I was stuck by the similarities between the students I met and the students of my era. The feeling of selflessness and dedication to the improvement of the world are attributes of Clark students of all generations.
My Clark experience was one of the greatest influences in my life. I would not be the person I am today had I not attended Clark. I often comment that in addition to the valuable classroom education, my life's work and personal mission were shaped by an environment that stimulated a strong sense of community and taught me to think in an independent manner. I was a student during the turbulent late 60s when the country was involved in an unpopular war and people's trust in government officials was shaken. These circumstances are similar to today's America. We had no internet or instant media; we gathered our information from newspapers, TV and conversation. Clark students have a strong tradition of standing up for their beliefs and this period was no exception.
I am proud to be a Clark graduate. It would be a privilege to serve on the Board of Trustees and have the opportunity to work together with all members of the Clark family to continue the Clark tradition of excellence.
uld be a privilege, and I would appreciate your vote.
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