Former University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler is reflecting on his 8 years leading the institution upon stepping down from the job.
Kaler says he's proud of what he's been able to accomplish, including breaking records on everything from graduation rates to fundraising efforts.
He talked about college sports on WCCO Radio's Sports Huddle with Sid, Dave and Mike on Sunday morning and the prospect of paying student athletes.
"My own personal belief is that the compensation athletes get in terms of their education and exposure is good for them and I believe in the collegiate model as we now practice it," Kaler said, admitting, "that not everybody does."
He says another big issue facing colleges sports is concussions. It's not only a problem for football but soccer as well.
As far as his memories of working with Sid Hartman over the years?
"Sid is a fixture beyond fixtures in the Twin Cities media," Kaler said. "When I was here 40 years ago as a graduate student, he was in the newspaper then too," he said. "I do remember my scheduler early on in my tenure closing the door and saying to me 'Sid Hartman is here and he doesn't have an appointment and I said well let's just send him in."
He said he was even happy to see Sid in his office last week.
As to what comes next for Kaler? "I'm going to spend the first year working with the foundation, as a senior advisor to them as we turn the final corner on our 4 billion dollar building campaign, and am back in the chemical engineering department, starting to teach and do research."
He said he would also be available to incoming President Joan Gabel should she need any assistance or advice.