UNCF President Gray named Haiti advisor

President Clinton appointed United Negro College Fund President and former Congressman William Gray as special advisor on Haiti last week. Gray, whose son, Bill, attends the University, was a member of the Commission on Strengthening the Community, which released its report in March on ways to improve campus relations. Commission Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the University Board of Trustees Gloria Chisum called Gray "an elegant choice." Clinton said in a press conference in the Rose Garden on May 8 that he appointed Gray, the former House Majority Whip and Chair of the House Budget Committee, to the post because he wants to bring "new vigor" to the U.S. response to the crisis in Haiti. "He is a man of vision and determination, of real strength and real creativity," Clinton said. "And I appreciate his willingness to accept this difficult and challenging assignment." Gray stated at the press conference that he shares the president's determination to "help end the suffering of the Haitian people?" He also said he will not accept pay for his new position, a decision lauded by many University officials. Chisum, who worked with Gray in developing the Commission's report, said Tuesday she expects Gray to excel in his new position as well. "He possesses the rare combination of practicality and tremendous empathy with people," Chisum added. Interim President Claire Fagin said she thinks Gray will make a "vital contribution, if anyone will." Gray is one of the "greatest people there is," she added. Acting Vice Provost for University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum, who said she has been a fan of Gray's for years, called Clinton's appointment "terrific and absolutely stunning." Gray, who attended Nelson Mandela's inauguration this week, was unavailable for comment.