Crisp holds open house

Winston Crisp said he believes budget concerns and health issues are the two most important areas he will address as the new vice chancellor connecting students and administrators.

Crisp used an open house Monday to introduce himself to students and answer their questions.

He said one of his biggest concerns is substance abuse.

“I continue to believe that the significant abuse of alcohol and other drugs is one of the biggest threats to universities today,” he said.

Crisp, who described himself as a supporter of Greek life, also addressed this year’s examination of the Greek system.

“There are aspects of the Greek community that need to change, and I’m not going to pretend that that’s not the case,” he said.

Crisp used the same lighthearted tone Monday talking about the basketball team’s recent woes as he did discussing budget issues and substance abuse.

While he is a physically imposing man at 6 feet, 4 inches with a linebacker’s build, he put student government officers and other students at ease with his easy smile and jovial attitude during the open house in the Student Union.

Crisp, who currently serves as the assistant vice chancellor for student affairs, is replacing Margaret Jablonski in May as vice chancellor for student affairs. He has been a part of the University community since he attended law school at UNC 18 years ago.

In his new role, Crisp will lead the division of student affairs, the administrative department that oversees many aspects of student life, including the Campus Y, the Student Union, campus housing, Campus Health Services and University Career Services.

In his new role, Crisp will oversee a budget of more than $80 million.

“We really have to get back to the basics of what is it that matters to us, what is necessary,” he said. “We’re going to have to make some tough decisions.”

Student Body Vice President David Bevevino said he has confidence in Crisp’s ability to act as an effective liaison between the student body and the administration.

“I think that he’s going to do a fantastic job,” he said.

Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.