Stanley believes 'new vision' will benefit Michigan State

Tuesday, Doctor Samuel Stanley, Jr. had already traded in the red and black of Stony Brook University for the Spartan green and white when he was introduced as Michigan State University's next president.

"I think new vision sometimes, a new set of eyes, a new set of approaches can really benefit a school," Dr. Samuel Stanley Jr. said.

At Stony Brook, located on Long Island, New York, he sought diversity and helped implement the "He for She" movement which encourages gender equality.

"On top of the stellar record, the experience, the background, he's a genuine, nice person." stated Diane Byrum, an MSU Board of Trustee.

An 18-person committee chose Dr. Stanley after a nine month long search.

Gregory Spray was on that presidential search committee.

He said, "Dr Stanley, I believe will treat all members of the university community, East Lansing, and the State of Michigan with dignity and respect."

Larry Nassar survivors were asked for their input on the search for a new president.

Dr. Stanley says he wants to meet with them and their families, but not until he takes office.

"What happened at MSU will not be forgotten," said Stanley. "Instead, it will drive us every day to work together to build a campus culture of transparency, awareness, sensitivity, respect, and prevention."

Dr. Stanley takes over for acting President Satush Udpa, who took over for interim President John Engler.

Engler took over when former President Lou Anna K. Simon resigned.

Stanley acknowledged this is a community in need of healing.

Dr. Stanley will begin his term as university president August 1.

He agreed to a five-year contract with a base salary of $800,000 a year.

The decision to conduct the search in private upset some members of the MSU community, as well as many Nassar survivors.