I take issue with the tone and content of Kevin Cerrito'scommentary in the March 24, 2004, issue of The Helmsman.First, TheU of M president, while not above criticism, should not have toread unwarranted comments about her hair and plays on words such as"Raines, Raines, go away" in the student newspaper.
Second, I disagree with what Mr. Cerrito had to say. I am gladthe president e-mailed us to indicate that she plans to stay here.UT nominated her for a reason:Her perceived success at The U of M.From the time of her inauguration in 2001, President Raines hascast a warm glow on this campus. Public relations is a major job ofa university president, and Shirley Raines is doing it well.AsStaff Senate president, I know she has gone out of her way tofacilitate better communication with the staff and itsleadership.�I don't always agree with her, but I know whereI stand.No administration is perfect, but I believe we arefortunate and blessed to have a president who emphasizes thebest in all of us.
James Rose
Staff Senate President
