Bruins in San Diego: Let Chancellor Block Hear You in Person On Nov. 2

Chancellor Block will be in San Diego on November 2, 2011.  He will be hosting an event for UCLA On The Road:

Pursuing a Second Century of Excellence: UCLA Looks Ahead
Wednesday November 2, 2011
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
9700 N. Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037

This presents a wonderful opportunity for many of us to get out and voice our concerns to Chancellor Block.You can find more details here. Price of admission is just mere $20 per person. You can RSVP by calling 310-206-0534 or emailing to ontheroad@support.ucla.edu.

We all know that public universities, particularly those in California, are facing incredible challenges, mainly stemming from the state's inability to fund education properly.  Last I hear, UCLA only received something like 10% of its funding from the state, and it was as high as 17% a couple of years ago, which is pathetic. In any case, I think these events are worthwhile and serve as a road show for our great university. 

First and foremost, and I don't really think I have to say this, but it is absolutely necessary for anyone involved to conduct themselves in a civil manner, to represent themselves well.  That goes without saying.  Gene Block has done really well for the university and he is very likable.

There are several challenges facing UCLA, but I don't know if Chancellor Block really understands what UCLA Football means to alumni and students.  So I think we should use this post to galvanize our thoughts and come up with some questions to ask the Chancellor, for anyone who gets a chance to speak to him.

I will post some of my questions after the jump, and the rest of you should do the same in the comment threads for those who might attend.

Football

- What role do you believe Athletics, and in particular Football, play in the reputation of a university?

- Do you feel that our football team represents UCLA well?

- Why has UCLA traditionally not spent resources on Football compared to other big programs?

- Are there any plans to significantly improve facilities for Athletics, such as Jackie Robinson Stadium and practice facilities for football?  As has been done for buildings on campus?

Other

- What is the current level of funding from the state?  Is UCLA considering a move to become a private university along the lines of Michigan?

- What is being done to attract and retain top notch professors at UCLA?

- Tuition is increasing but students are still having a hard time graduating in 4 years, how are you addressing that?

Well those are mine, I'm sure others have more.  I stayed away from "when are you going to fire Dan Guerrero" type questions, they never get answered. 

Anyway, do try to go if you have a chance and are in the area.  It's only $20!  That's like a coke and a hot dog at the Rose Bowl and it might be more entertaining.