The Academic Service Learning program at the University of Wisconsin-Superior was at the forefront of the first chancellor candidate presentation on Monday in the Yellowjacket Union.

Dr. Steven Siconolfi is the current dean of health sciences and human performance at Ithaca College in Ithaca, N.Y. He spoke to an audience of about 100 faculty, staff and students. 

"Academic service learning puts the public in public liberal arts," Siconolfi said.

Among the things he spoke about, Siconolfi stressed the importance of AS-L to UW-Superior and how it helps get students out into the community. AS-L was started at UW-Superior about two years ago. It integrates community service into classroom curriculum.

Siconolfi also spoke of strengthening the UW-Superior brand. He said marketing of the university was very important, and that the currently University Relations department has a good start on where to go with getting the word out about UW-Superior and hopefully increasing enrollment.

After his ten minute speech, audience members were given the chance to ask questions of the chancellor candidate. He was asked about topics ranging from student involvement to internationalizing the campus. Perhaps the toughest question for Siconolfi was how he would protect the campus from the turmoil surrounding Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's budget repair bill.

Siconolfi says he can't deal with political conflict alone, and would look to his potential colleagues at UW-Superior for help.

"I'm not going to do it alone," Siconolfi said. "What I see is that the chancellor can't be just inward, they have to be outward."

Three other candidates for chancellor will get their chance for presentations throughout this week and into next. Dr. Renee Wachter will present on Wed., March 9, Dr. Anantha Babbili on Fri., March 11 and Dr. Cheryle Norton on Mon., March 14.