http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-984620.mp3
Galesburg, IL – Rich Egger's guest is Dr Teresa Amott. She is the new president of Knox College.
Amott comes to Knox College from western New York state, which is where the founders of Knox and Galesburg began their journey to the Midwest 175 years ago.
Amott believes all college presidents today face an economically challenging environment for higher education. She hopes her background as an economist will help her lead the school through such times.
"One thing they teach you as an economist is how to allocate scarce resources amongst competing ends," Amott said.
Amott said it's important to recognize how many people depend on wise decisions to keep the institution open - hopefully for at least another 175 years.
She plans to tell students and parents that a liberal arts education - such as what is offered at Knox - is best for preparing people for the workforce during difficult times. She said it will teach students how to learn and engage in critical thinking.
Amott said she will also be working to renovate Alumni Hall.
"We anticipate moving our admissions office in there and some other offices as well," Amott said. "We will have a little more conversation on campus this fall about what is the appropriate use and then we're hoping to revive Alumni Hall, which has been mothballed for some time."
She said Knox has received state and federal money for the project.