Thinking bigger

The administration sprung a big one on us over break. Doug Duncan is set to assume the position of vice president of administrative affairs at the university. Talk about a seismic announcement - former Maryland gubernatorial candidate Duncan has been Montgomery County Executive and Rockville mayor as well, and is a perfect mix of political power and administrative competence.

The university is at the cusp of critical transition; key developments such as East Campus revitalization and the university's connection with the Purple line are nearing actionable stages. We can hardly believe our good fortune that the man who ran the biggest county in Maryland for 12 years and was responsible for overseeing an economic and social renaissance in Silver Spring is joining our university. It is interesting to note that university officials are entering talks with FP-Argo of Rockville, a joint venture that was instrumental in revitalizing Silver Spring, to discuss specifics on the way the 38-acre tract of land will be developed.

The vacancy was created by state politico John Porcari, who left his position to become secretary of transportation in Martin O'Malley's administration. Duncan is more of a mover and shaker - apart from his roots in the politically and financially powerful Montgomery County, his impressive gubernatorial campaign established his statewide credibility, challenging then-Baltimore mayor O'Malley, who would have otherwise cruised to an easy primary nomination. From College Park to Annapolis, Duncan will be well-positioned to defend university interests.

So we have nothing but cheers for Duncan, who begins work April 4. The university's next task will be to replace its impending high-profile departure of Provost Bill Destler. Officials are looking within the university for a replacement, and we wish them the best of luck. But with all due respect to the new provost, it is unlikely he or she will generate the raw excitement comparable to what Duncan's arrival has brought.