August 9, 2005 issue

OBJECTS IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR: Eastern Michigan University President John A. Fallon III talks to student leaders during his first day on campus July 18. During the breakfast meeting in Welch Hall, Fallon provided a "rear view mirror analogy" complete with a visual aid. He told students that if you are continually looking into the rear view mirror, you will not be able to see through the windshield to what is ahead. Fallon said he is intent on moving EMU toward achievement of its greatest potential.

"I don't believe in failure, only in successes yet to be achieved," Fallon said.

Fallon's first day also included an interview with WEMU 89.1 FM radio where he discussed his personal and professional style, the importance of listening, his plans for his first few months on the job and his views on legislative and financial challenges facing higher education.

Fallon also sent the entire campus an e-mail with his thoughts. "I believe strongly that faculty are the heart of the academy, students are its lifeblood, alumni represent the institutional soul, support staff comprise the context within which all of this takes place optimally and professional staff represent precious connections between and among all of the groups of people who comprise the University. You can expect me to 'walk this talk' in my personal and professional life."

Fallon met with the campus community during an all-campus gathering in McKenny Union July 27. More than 200 faculty, staff and students turned out to meet Fallon and his wife, Dr. Sidney Fallon.

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