President's Update

continued President's message

But it is Bob Hartwig to whom we say a final goodbye and thank you. “Bigger than life Bob” developed the Broadcast Communications program. Those who attended his Memorial Service on December 10 know how highly regarded, much loved and well respected he was by Cuesta colleagues and by his students. If you have listened to the “Tribute to Bob Hartwig” the students have developed and broadcast on KGUR all week, you have heard the students’ and colleagues’ words tell the story of who Bob the teacher, leader, mentor, friend, and life-long learner was. Bob loved life, he knew how to celebrate it by reading (voraciously), learning (two Masters degrees, all the technical knowledge and skills of broadcasting, video, television, editing, directing and producing shows), riding (his beloved horse RL, sleek brand new motorcycle, and classy car), and making good friends. Just talk with Randy, Anthony, Darlene, Denise, Ralph, Nancy, and all the rest of his colleagues in Languages and Communications, Social Sciences, departments across the campus, and in the media. 

In the last six years, Bob rejuvenated the Broadcasting program—everything from new curriculum and equipment to raising funds and renovating some of the studio. I had the pleasure of many conversations with Bob about the need for renovation and funding for equipment and remodeling as I tried to help connect the Foundation and individual donors with this excellent program. The renovation was not complete, but it is included in the Facilities Needs List and plans for a bond measure. Bob was an advocate of a Cuesta bond measure, not just for the Broadcasting program, but he knew Journalism, Language labs and classrooms and all the other classrooms needed to be upgraded. He also knew the equipment needed to be replaced and almost continuously upgraded and recycled.

Bob will not be here to help with a bond campaign if the Board places a ballot measure on the June primary ballot, but his spirit, recognition that the future belongs to the students, and his zest for life will be. Thank you, Bob.

As we look forward to the activities of spring semester, it is timely to tell you about the results of the Voter Tracking Poll about the level of support from a representative sample of the voters in SLO County. Completed at the end of November and reported at the December 7 Board of Trustees meeting, this poll shows that 72% of the 541 randomly selected voters say they “strongly favor” or “somewhat favor” a $310 million bond measure on the upcoming ballot. The poll results confirm those of May; voters strongly value Cuesta College and want to make sure this college continues to do an excellent job in preparing students for good jobs and successful academic transfer. The poll results and addendum to the 2001 Educational and Facilities Master Plan will be available online and discussed on Opening Day, January 13.

Until then “happy grading and registering students” and then everybody, please, enjoy life with your families and friends. Eat, be merry, rest, and savor the preciousness of life.