EMU Quality

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(Daily News-Record editorial)

Generally, it may be better to take control of a third-rate struggling institution than one with a high quality reputation.

Hence, it would be easier to succeed as manager of the Detroit Tigers – if management puts some money in the organization – than to take over for Joe Torre. Mr. Torre and the New York Yankees have an impressive post-season streak. If the Tigers move up one notch in their division, it will be considered a good year.

So there is a daunting task before new Eastern Mennonite University President Loren Swartzendruber. Last week, Mr. Swartzendruber was installed as the eighth president of EMU. He takes over a quality institution. EMU is definitely not the Detroit Tigers of universities.

In his speech, the new president pledged EMU would remain a place for life-shaping advice he called "sacred conversations."

Some universities are known as party schools. EMU is known more for political activism and international interests. The campus is a mini United Nations – minus the corruption. Most students are involved in some type of political, religious or civic activism.

EMU is a valuable institution in Harrisonburg. It already has a sterling reputation, but no doubt will continue to improve with Mr. Swartzendruber as president. We wish him the best.

George Duncan, Daily News-Record editorial page editor

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