Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, October 23, 1993 TAG: 9310230078
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: ALLISON BLAKE STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
"I want to see if I'm comfortable with it," said the 62-year-old former dean of the College of Engineering. "So far, I'm enjoying it."
Torgersen was appointed early this month to the acting presidency following the surprise resignation of James D. McComas, who stepped down after he was diagnosed with colon cancer. In 1988, the last time Tech sought a president, McComas was appointed over Torgersen, who had spent seven months in the interim post.
"I was a little disappointed - for about 48 hours," said Torgersen. "Dr. McComas was perfect for this job at that time. He provided leadership during a funding decline. He managed to keep the institution on a steady course.
"He managed to keep spirits up."
Hushed speculation over who will replace McComas has grown since his departure, even though the 12-member Presidential Search Committee won't meet for the first time until Nov. 1. The committee will probably begin to develop a profile of what the university needs in a president, said search committee chairman Henry Dekker.
"We're already hearing from people. There are a lot of names," he said.
Often mentioned alongside Torgersen's name is former Provost David D. Roselle, now president of the University of Delaware.
"I don't anticipate being a candidate for the job," Roselle said this week. "Sitting presidents usually don't apply for other presidencies.
"That doesn't mean I don't wish the people there well. I greatly value the friendships I have in Blacksburg. I worked very hard for that institution's success."
The university's Vice President for Development and University Relations, Charles W. Steger, said he would not speculate on the presidential search.
"The committee hasn't even met yet," he said.
With state budget cuts threatening another 15 percent of a budget already trimmed by $70 million since 1989, Tech needs a president who can represent its interests before the General Assembly.
"Expertise in dealing with the Virginia legislature - that is the major thing we require at this time," said David DeWolff, president of the faculty senate.
In an interview in his Burruss Hall office this week , Torgersen pointed to the map of Virginia he'll use as his guide as he embarks on a tour of key legislators' offices next week.
That familiarity with members of the General Assembly, as well as potential major donors, are two reasons he'd make a good president, Torgersen said.
"I know the territory," he said.
The avid tennis player also said he has "a very high energy level," and realizes he would owe the university at least five years on the job if appointed.
Still, Torgersen, saying he feels an obligation to serve the university, stressed that he is not yet a candidate for the post. He would likewise be very happy to return to his endowed John W. Hancock Jr. teaching chair in the engineering department.
Said Torgersen's wife, Dorothea: "It's his decision. Whatever it is, I'll support him."
by CNB