First presidential lecture focuses on Dr. JoAnn Haysbert's vision
By Sharda Stepeny
Issue date: 10/4/06 Section: News
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The title for Acquaah's speech was "Believing in the Journey from Excellence to Greatness."
"The title for the lecture series was a given. I wanted to act as a cheerleader, encouraging Dr. Haysbert's vision from excellence to greatness," Acquaah said.
Acquaah began the lecture by talking about the need to transform the university. He said as an institution of higher education, the university should strive for a higher academic reputation. He also said the university could become a one tier university with the help of fund raising, determination, courage, and perseverance.
"To get a complete change we have to be willing to change the university from the inside out," Acquaah said.
He also talked about the university's image.
"I think the university has a good image, but we are selling ourselves short because we need to do more to let the world know who we are," he said.
Haysbert concluded the lecture by thanking Acquaah. She also presented him with a plaque on behalf of Langston University.
Acquaah was chosen as the guest lecturer because of his strong academic and professional background. He received his doctorate in plant breeding and genetics from Michigan State University. In 1991, Acquaah joined the staff of Langston University as an assistant professor and management specialist with the FHA small farms project. In 1997, he was appointed professor and chair of the department of agriculture. He has written seven textbooks, and co-authored several book chapters and peer-reviewed scientific papers. He is also the recipient of many awards, including Teacher of the Year, the USDA Excellence in College and University Teaching Award, the Millennium Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the NAFEO NOBLE Award. He currently serves as a member of the board of directors of the DaVinci Institute, an Oklahoma creativity think tank.
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