By Briana Williams–

Though often short-lived, the idea behind New Year’s resolutions is positive. After the rough year U of L has had, the university, as a whole, could use a few goals for 2017.

1. Find a president

After President James Ramsey resigned and Acting President Neville Pinto announced he would leave his position, the future leadership of the university is in question. Without a solid, lasting president, the university lacks a public figure and prominent member of the U of L community.

2. Increase security on campus

After a number of assaults and robberies last semester, student safety should be a top concern for U of L. Adding guards to patrol campus, making the blue light system more efficient and creating a more accessible relationship between U of L Police and students could help students’ safety.

3. Stop the scandals

After 2015 and 2016’s seemingly never-ending lists of scandals, some of U of L’s priorities should include cleaning up messes made. The university’s slightly tarnished reputation among its students, faculty and alumni can be mended if it changes the way business is done. Especially after the chaos with the board of trustees, organizing the infrastructure within the university will fix many of its problems.

4. Continue beautifying campus

First impressions are important. The $40 million SAC renovation is what the university needs to accommodate the growing number of students. Good restaurants, study spots and updated, modern classrooms are all what incoming students will expect. It will also keep U of L as a competitive higher education institution.

If U of L wants to continue down the path of becoming an academically prominent university, it has to continue impressing future students and enable them to envision being within the U of L community.

5. Don’t lose accreditation

After Gov. Matt Bevin appointed a new board of trustees, U of L’s accrediting body placed the school on probation due to undue political influence. A bill was presented to Kentucky Legislation on Jan. 3 that, if passed, would allow Bevin to appoint a new board again. The bill passed on Jan. 7 and will be sent to Bevin in the coming weeks. This bill will only further the tension between the university and SACS and could result in U of L losing accreditation entirely.

6. Put students first

Many of the issues faced in 2016 were because student interest wasn’t considered. This not only frustrated students, it also worsened the already strained relationship between students and U of L administration. For too long, U of L’s leaders have neglected the opinions and ideas students have for bettering the university. By placing student interest as its first priority, the road to redemption will be far easier for the administration.