I think one of the more significant changes during the past 30 years is the extent of parental involvement in student issues. Parents seem to be much more involved than they used to be. On the one hand, this can be a good thing, but on the other hand, it can cause problems, especially when the parents try to fix something that the student has not yet addressed. Another change is the level of student activism. Students were much more involved in political issues in the '60s and '70s, primarily because of the events of the time. Today's students have turned their attention to other issues, particularly volunteer opportunities. Ironically, many of today's students seem to be more focused on personal issues and not as much on others, despite this commitment to volunteerism.

Are the problems and pressures facing students today different from when you started?

This is a much more complicated time for young people. Many students come to college with pre-existing emotional problems that need continuing treatment. An increasing number of students are coming from broken homes and require special attention. As a result, our professional counseling services have expanded dramatically. Obviously, drugs and alcohol are an ever-present problem and must be dealt with on a continual basis. In addition, students are also confronted with more decisions than ever before because society is more open and the number of options has increased. It also seems to me that students have more pressure to succeed than ever before. Some of this comes from parents, and some of it comes from within.

Are the problems and pressures facing students today different from when you started?

This is a much more complicated time for young people. Many students come to college with pre-existing emotional problems that need continuing treatment. An increasing number of students are coming from broken homes and require special attention. As a result, our professional counseling services have expanded dramatically. Obviously, drugs and alcohol are an ever-present problem and must be dealt with on a continual basis. In addition, students are also confronted with more decisions than ever before because society is more open and the number of options has increased. It also seems to me that students have more pressure to succeed than ever before. Some of this comes from parents, and some of it comes from within.

How have colleges tried to keep pace with the changing needs of students?

In a variety of ways. We use approaches that are as simple as recognizing student needs through one-to-one contact. We also monitor trends in higher education and working cooperatively with our colleagues at other colleges and universities. At Wooster, we have responded with such programs as off-campus study, which gives students a chance to study around the world. We have also worked diligently to meet the needs of a growing population of students of color and international students. Over all, our goal has been to develop programs that provide a network of support for all of our students.

Are the students of today better equipped to enter "the real world?"

Generally, I think they are. The academic program at Wooster, for example, has always been rigorous, but the College, like many other institutions, has worked to strengthen it. Other services have been added or strengthened as well. For example, when I started, career counseling was limited and really only available to students planning to become teachers, but now there is a fully staffed Career Services operation. This, along with other counseling and advising services, has helped to give students an opportunity to make a smooth transition into society.

What changes are on the horizon for colleges and their students in the next 25 years?

It's very hard to predict what will happen next. With technology changing so rapidly, every institution must focus on how to anticipate future needs. One example is the increase in distance learning opportunities and how that will affect schools like us, but I am very optimistic about the future of liberal arts institutions. Wooster has a tremendous tradition as well as a history of being progressive. With a strong faculty, a lean but talented administrative staff, a dedicated Board of Trustees, a vibrant group of students, and a wonderful campus, I am very confident that Wooster will stand strong for many years to come.