CSUS is in good hands

Like many other agencies, businesses and nonprofits, California State University, Stanislaus, is suffering severe budget cuts due to the economic downturn.

As a member of the President's Council, I receive a lot of information about the budget situation and am aware of what the university is doing to cut nearly

$14 million while preserving academic quality. The difficult process has spurred a few individuals to create a campuswide controversy, but I strongly believe that President Hamid Shirvani is advancing the university with students as the top priority.

The university's reputation has grown immensely during the past five years and it is widely recognized as a place of academic excellence. That wouldn't have happened without Shirvani's leadership. As mayor of Modesto, I know firsthand how hard it can be to sit down with constituent groups and reach consensus on budget decisions. Sometimes, it is impossible, and we must rely on leadership to make the hard and courageous decisions.

CSU Stanislaus is in good hands with President Shirvani. He is collaborative and collegial, but he is willing to make the tough decisions when necessary to protect the integrity of the institution. I support his leadership and encourage others to do the same.

JIM RIDENOUR

Modesto