Rawlins back and rolling

President V. Lane Rawlins, following his recent ankle surgery, returned to campus Thanksgiving week. And, although his ankle is still in the healing stages, he’s not letting that slow him down.

Employing the help of device known as “A Leg Up,” Rawlins is rolling down the hallways of French Administration Building making regular meetings. The four-wheeled device is less aerodynamic than a Laser scooter, which may be prohibiting him from hitting light speed. Nevertheless, Rawlins was overheard challenging Provost Robert Bates to get one of the scooters so he could race him.

Rawlins, who attended the Board of Regents meeting in Seattle on Nov. 25, said he is busy working with other administrators on:

* the upcoming supplemental legislative budget,

* the 2006-2008 biennial budget and other legislative requests

* identifying key leaders to help with an upcoming capital campaign

* enrollment planning for 2006

* planning for the next phase of the biotechnology complex to be funded through WSU’s land grant endowment.

Rawlins was at the University of Washington’s Harbor View Medical Center for five days and at home recuperating for about 10 days. During that time, he said he stayed plugged into WSU events, responding to about 50 e-mails a day.



He said his ankle operation shows signs of success. He will go to the hospital for X-rays and an evaluation on Dec. 23, to see if the ankle bones are fusing together as hoped. If they are, he said he would probably move to a boot and crutches.

His goal is to be back to a normal statewide travel schedule by January, playing golf by March, and hiking by summer.

Next Story

Students design outdoor story walk for Keller schools

A group of WSU landscape architecture students is gaining hands‑on experience by designing an outdoor classroom with members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Indian Reservation.

Recent News

E-tongue can detect white wine spoilage before humans can

While bearing little physical resemblance to its namesake, the strand-like sensory probes of the “e-tongue” still outperformed human senses when detecting contaminated wine in a recent WSU-led study.

Provost selection process ongoing

WSU expects to name its next provost before the end of April. President Kirk Schulz is actively considering two finalists, with feedback provided by the university community being a key factor in the decision.

Employee Assistance Program hosts special sessions, April 17

Washington State Employee Assistance Program Director Jennifer Nguyen will lead two discussions tomorrow on the topics of change and personal wellbeing. Both presentations will be livestreamed.