A recent Journal-World story reported that work is beginning to fill the vacancy created by the departure of Richard Norton Smith as director of the Dole Institute of Politics. Under Smith’s leadership and vision, there was every reason to believe the Dole Institute would become known throughout the country, as well as around the world, as one of the most important centers for serious study of major national and international issues.

Smith took over the job fully intending to remain in Lawrence for a number of years, but, unfortunately, conditions were such he thought it best to accept one of the many offers he received to associate with other libraries, universities or research facilities.

Kansas University’s law school dean, Stephen McAllister, was asked to serve as temporary director and to consider the possibility of becoming the full-time director. He has decided, however, to focus all of his efforts to leading the law school and the search to secure a top-flight leader for the unique Dole Institute has become even more important.

It is essential that the new director be a person who has the highest regard and respect for Bob Dole and his work as a senator and statesman. Likewise, it is important for the Doles, both Bob and Elizabeth, to have respect and full confidence in the new director.

Smith is recognized as one of the nation’s foremost authorities on U.S. presidents as well as being a superb writer and speaker. It is doubtful the new director will be able to match Smith in all of these areas, but hopefully the person selected will have other skills and strengths that will add to the excellence and direction of the institute.

To have the best chance for success, the new director should have a clear understanding and pledge from KU Endowment Association officials concerning the level of private financial support the institute will receive. There also should be a clear understanding on the direct line of command between the director and the chancellor and what university support the institute will receive. It would be ideal if the institute could be set up as an independent entity, similar to the KU Endowment Association, with a its own strong, influential and relatively small board of advisers or trustees.

The opportunities are great, but there must be vision and high expectations if the institute is to come anywhere near to reaching its potential. During this period, when the institute has had temporary leadership, it probably isn’t surprising that there has been a lag in exciting programming, seminars and conferences. If he had wanted the permanent job, McAllister would have done a first-class job, but it is understandable he would prefer to remain as dean of the law school and make law and/or some other area of politics his lifetime career.

But now that a search is under way for a new director, it is time to set some goals and standards of excellence for the use of this striking and unique building. It would be a shame to do otherwise.

It is nice to have receptions, coffees and other similar events at the Dole Institute, and it must remain a highly visible public building rather than becoming an isolated facility for use by a few elite faculty members and researchers. But now is the time to get serious about filling the vacancy created by Smith’s departure. Only a lack of vision can keep the Dole Institute from reaching its potential.

It’s a great facility that can help KU rise to even higher levels of excellence and public service. Best wishes to former Dole aide Kim Wells and others charged with the task of finding a new director.