Fifteen university employees, gathered around a table at the Statler Hotel May 15, caught an early glimpse of what the administration of President-elect David Skorton might mean for Cornell staff.

Early in a luncheon, hosted by Skorton for invited staff, the new president sketched out his plans to set up a monthly forum with Cornell staff leadership representatives to allow for open communication with him on topics of staff interest. The schedule will follow a similar program that proved successful under Skorton's leadership at the University of Iowa. Skorton said the Iowa forums have served both the staff and the university well, especially during times of difficulty, as when the university grappled with deep budget cuts by the state four years ago.

Another Iowa feature that Skorton enthusiastically shared involves a faculty-staff budget committee co-chaired by one staff and one faculty member. With this group Skorton is able to talk over "seasonably predictable things," such as the budgeting process and annual benefit expenses, in addition to the unexpected topic that crops up. He explained how University of Iowa staff members have helped formulate strategies to deal with rising benefit costs and shortfalls in state funding.

"It is pleasing to see President-elect Skorton taking such an active and consultative role in seeking out staff perspectives on issues impacting staff," said Sara Strickland, human resources director for the College of Arts and Sciences.

Among others attending the event were Terry Sharpe, president of UAW Local 2300 Cornell, and three Employee Assembly officers. "I'm impressed that President-elect Skorton took the initiative to make this happen," said Donna Goss, assembly chair. "Although he hasn't begun his official duties here yet, he is already demonstrating a genuine interest in meeting staff."

Skorton was in Ithaca for four days of back-to-back appointments and luncheon engagements with other campus constituencies, including graduate students and faculty, as well as senior staff. Skorton will officially take office July 1 but is expected to return to Cornell in June for Reunion Weekend.

Dennis Stein is the editor of the Cornell staff newspaper, PawPrint.