The Western University Alumni Association represents more than 270,000 members worldwide. As a voting representative on the university Senate, along with my colleagues, I have had an opportunity to consult with the Alumni Board regarding its views on the matters that have been occupying the news in this paper and others.
Given our commitment to ensure a positive public image for our university, alumni have a special interest in the recent events regarding Dr. Amit Chakma’s compensation.
We are a major stakeholder community in this venerable and significant institution. The Western Alumni Association Board of Directors, elected representatives of a significant component of the Western family, fully supports both President Chakma and Board of Governors Chair Chirag Shah.
We respect the president for his decision and thank him for his continuing contributions in support of the implementation of our institution’s Strategic Plan. Under his leadership, Western has gained important momentum in key areas integral to the university’s success. The Alumni Association will continue to support him and look forward to working collaboratively with him in the future.
We applaud the proposed external review process, and have confidence that the Board and President Chakma will abide by its recommendations.
John Eberhard
Western University Alumni Association President