For anyone who ever wanted to hear first hand about the growth of UB's North Campus during William R. Greiner's term as president, he will be discussing his new book on April 2nd. Surprisingly, the title of the book is called “Location, Location, Location... a Special History of the University of/at Buffalo." Now normally I would be excited to hear how a location propelled a business or a university into some sort of stardom. I would think that in UB's case it was the opposite. The discussion "... will provide a glimpse into UB's past and will detail the events and the planning that resulted in the university's move to Amherst rather than to the Buffalo waterfront, or an expansion of the South Campus."
Don't get me wrong... UB has made amazing strides despite its isolated location. But maybe the book should have been called "Higher Education, Higher Education, Higher Education". That is unless Greiner has formulated an incredible spin on how the region has benefited instead of the city. That would be tough though considering that if the city was strong then the region would most likely be strong.
In an article by Blair Boone written for UB Today in the fall of '03 Greiner is quoted as saying, "It was a miraculous time," he reflects. "It was really extraordinary. But that’s not the best thing that ever happened to this university.
"The best is yet to come."
With the help of President Simpson, those words may never be truer. Let's just hope that David Paterson is as committed to UB's urban investments as Spitzer was.
*Location, location, location is co-authored with SUNY Distinguished Service Professor Thomas E. Headrick at UB Downtown. The discussion will be held from noon to 1:15 p.m. April 2 in Chef’s Restaurant. The cost of the program is $16 per person and $14 for UB Alumni Association or School of Management Alumni Association members, who may bring one guest at the member cost. Copies of the book are available for $10 and $12.50. Registration is available at the UB Alumni Association web site or by calling 716-645-3312. Payment must be made at the time of registration.
Photo: Glenn Murray