Editorial Board

Iowa State is losing a long-time friend. In about a month, Vice President for External Affairs Reid Crawford will be leaving his position to fill a spot as vice president at the University of Maryland.

Crawford’s relationship with ISU began when he was an undergraduate student here. While still in school, he was elected as a state representative in the Iowa House.

Crawford returned to ISU as the university’s legal adviser in 1981 — a position he held until just last year. From 1981 to 1991 he also served as the assistant to the president. In 1991, Crawford was selected for his present position.

Among many of Crawford’s achievements is the fact that his office directed the most successful fundraising drive to date. Crawford also helped develop a university plan to achieve gender equity in athletics while offering a large roster of university sports.

But Crawford’s commitment to ISU goes beyond his many accomplishments. Time and again he has proven to be a friend to students. In an era when students often feel that many administrators distance themselves from students, Crawford has been a notable exception. He makes himself accessible to students and doesn’t shy away from student issues. When students rally on the steps of Beardshear Hall, it is often Mr. Crawford who comes out to address their needs and concerns.

His friendship has also been extended to students on a more social level. His role as chapter adviser for FarmHouse Fraternity is but one example of his involvement in student life.

Crawford has set an administrative standard that students have come to respect.

ISU will miss him.