Last week a large crowd heard RCFC member and 14th president of Colorado State University, Dr. Anthony A. Frank, deliver his annual "State of the University" address. After noting the many achievements of CSU (record enrollment and fund raising; high engagement and 'satisfaction' ratings etc.), Dr. Frank chose to spend most of his address on the sanctity of free speech, the problems of hate speech, and the role of the university in developing personal responsibility.
Noting that he is a fan of the current student generation, he observed they are willing to challenge the status quo, show empathy for others, and walk in other's shoes. Frank recounted 3 disturbing instances of religious/racial intimidation since classes started, including the story of an Islamic student being verbally attacked by a community member, fellow bus riders getting between the young woman and her attacker, and getting off with and walking the young lady safely to her destination. He then reminded us of what that young woman may have felt the next morning when she had to go back out into the community. He commented that we musts have free speech to solve the big issues not solved so far, and asked "Is speech speech, if no one listens?" Asking that we all listen more and talk less, he suggested we visibly stand with anyone targeted by hate speech, and teach by example.
On September 20, the National Western Stock Show named Frank the "2018 Citizen of the West", an award that recognizes "those who embody the spirit and determination of the Western pioneer and perpetuate the West’s agriculture heritage and ideals". Dr. Frank joins fellow RCFC member Dr. Johnny Matsushima in this honor, placing RCFC in a unique category.