Several years back, this board was overloaded with negative bloviating, not only about athletics, due to the obvious reasons, but it spilled over into other parts of the university. As far as I can tell from another state, that is no longer the case. I sense a new atmosphere of genuine positives from all that I read and see. Of course we have our new president and our new athletic direction. So, for you folks there in the Tri-Cities, is it for real a new day at ETSU?
There's still work to be done, places that need improvement, personnel changes needing made but by and large they're on the right path.
The vibe is indeed different on campus. Students seem to like Noland's willingness to interact with them and really become involved in activities.
There will always be people upset about something, and I don't think that the total amount of negativity has decreased. People are upset about the seemingly never ending obsession about increasing student enrollment, others are upset about campus maintenance (which I see as a strength instead of a weakness), half of the students are still upset about football and/or the culp center renovation expenses. Most students are upset about the mandatory meal plan, and the rumor that the university might soon require freshman to live on campus will make some people go through the roof.
But overall I think Noland has done a great job of improving the vibe on campus, and at least a small part of that involves increased discussions regarding athletics. I think that 10 years from now when students have an established football program, renovated buildings and dining options, and are accustomed to some of the recent changes, there will be less negativity.
I definitely think there is a much more positive atmosphere around the university but there are still so many people from the old admin lurking around and influencing students, the public and new faculty. Like etsbuc said though, in 10 years I believe we will see a lot less negativity. ETSU was stuck in a rut for almost 15 years, not just in athletics. I believe they are finally pulling themselves out.