The University of Colorado announced it will hold a series of open forums with Mark Kennedy, the lone finalist for the school's President position. The purpose is for alumni and donors to meet Kennedy and ask questions about his vision for the university. He will spend one day at each campus location, meeting with representatives from faculty, staff and student governance groups.
Last week, the faculty assembly at CU-Boulder passed a resolution expressing concerns with Kennedy's selection by the board of regents. CU Spokesman Ken McConnellogue defended the selection process.
"Mark Kennedy is the fourth consecutive CU President to be considered for the CU Presidency who is a single finalist," McConnellogue said. "I'd also note that was the exact same way it happened for CSU a couple of weeks ago."
State law requires Kennedy to remain a finalist for 14 days before he can officially become President.
Some students have protested Kennedy's conservative politics. While serving in Congress, Kennedy voted in favor of a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. In an open letter, Kennedy said his view on the matter has evolved.
"My record in supporting the LGBTQ+ community reflects a deep respect for the dignity of each individual," Kennedy wrote. "Students, faculty, staff and members of our community will have my full support and respect no matter who they love or how they identify."
He encouraged people to attend the forums and ask questions.
The campus forum schedule, subject to change, is:
CU system administration and CU Foundation: 3:15-4:15 p.m. April 22, Warwick Hotel, Capitol Ballroom, 1776 Grant St., Denver
University of Colorado Colorado Springs: 1:30-2:30 p.m. April 23, University Center, Room 116, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus: 3:30-4:30 p.m. April 24, Education 2 North, Room 1102, 13120 E. 19th Ave., Aurora
University of Colorado Denver: 3:15-4:15 p.m. April 25, Student Commons, Room 2600, 1201 Larimer St., Denver
University of Colorado Boulder: 10:15-11:15 a.m. April 26, Macky Auditorium, 1595 Pleasant St., Boulder