Rick W. Modesitt: Garrison must step down to restore WVU's integrity

It is unfortunate that the reputation of West Virginia University has been tarnished over the controversy involving Heather Bresch and the WVU degree she apparently did not earn.

It would appear that "politics" had much more to do with awarding a "degree" than any other component of this fiasco.

I find it amusing that President Mike Garrison has stated he was taking full responsibility, yet it appears to be in words only. To date, the only people who have actually taken responsibility have been Stephen Sears and Gerald Lang.

Many in our state questioned the appointment of Mr. Garrison as president of West Virginia University from the beginning. It has been widely viewed as a pure political appointment.

Taking everything into consideration, including the past and continuing relationship between the parties, including Garrison and Gov. Joe Manchin, as well as his daughter, Ms. Bresch, this incident continues to leave questions and suspicion in the minds of most West Virginians.

Whether real or perceived, serious damage is being done to the university. The integrity and credibility of this fine educational institution will continue to be in question until major change has been implemented and all participating parties, including President Garrison, are gone.

WVU needs to have its reputation fully restored. The only logical decision at this point would be for Garrison to immediately resign. The selection of a new president must be made without the influence of politics. Someone should be selected who has the credentials and the integrity to restore the faith of the students, the faculty, the university donors and, most importantly, the faith and confidence of the people of West Virginia.

At this point, Garrison should think more about WVU than his own job security.

Rick W. Modesitt is a Parkersburg resident.