Photo by Christopher Gannon.
The Faculty Senate participates in shared governance of Iowa State with university administrators. Faculty Senate president Rahul Parsa is the second consecutive term faculty member elected to the position and third in its history.
Why do you want to lead the Faculty Senate?
I used to be tenure-track faculty when I was at Drake University (25 years) and now I am term faculty here, so I see both sides. I have been through the tenure process, promotion, trying to publish and what it takes to do research. It's not easy. Also, I see how it's not easy as term faculty to teach, be in the classroom and advise students. At the end of the day -- term or tenure -- we are here for the students and we want them to be successful.
What do you want to address during your presidency?
I see three critical issues that the Senate might have to address in artificial intelligence (AI), diversity, equity and inclusion and salaries. AI is here to stay because it is the future and we are already seeing many great applications for it. As AI takes hold, we should be ready to adapt and change the curriculum as needed. We also are working to determine what actions are required to comply with a new law that imposes restrictions on diversity, equity and inclusion offices. Finally, faculty and staff salaries must be competitive. In any university, people come and go, but the reason for their departure should not be their salaries. We want the university to be an inclusive and welcoming place for all.
You've had a significant role in informing faculty about artificial intelligence. What do you see as next steps?
While we have incorporated artificial intelligence in the curriculum with an AI major and minor, we also see some negative impacts. We must remain vigilant. The faculty and university need to create some guardrails because we want the students to benefit from it while guarding against misinformation.
Your thoughts on the senate working with a new provost for the first time in 12 years?
I am excited to see provost Jason Keith join us. When he interviewed for the position, he presented a sheet of Iowa State’s priorities and how his vision fit into it. I loved it and saw he shared our vision and mission. I have since had a chance to talk to him and understand his vision. He recognizes the importance of the Faculty Senate and realizes how important shared governance is, especially at Iowa State. I am looking forward to working with him.
What's something you enjoy about Iowa State and recommend to faculty and staff?
Iowa State is often listed as one of the nation's most beautiful colleges or universities. I want people to walk around, enjoy the beauty and admire the flowers -- the hibiscus plants. Let’s appreciate the landscape and, more importantly, the people who create this landscape. We have a gorgeous campus that we should all be proud of it. Go Cyclones!
