Ricard Recalls First Year as ASP Director

By JOSH PERREAULT
 
In his first full year as director of the Advanced Studies Program, Michael Ricard has worked extremely hard to assure that the ASP experience is a success for everyone involved.

Last summer, Mr. Ricard stepped into his role as director at the beginning of the ASP. It was his first experience being in charge of the system albeit taking the helm after the session had started.

“I hoped he would use the first summer as a learning experience,” said former director Mr. Thomas Bazos. “I was very pleased. He didn’t come in and make too many changes, the system works. He just fine tuned it.”

This year, Mr. Ricard not only runs the day to day summer life but also contributed tireless work during the winter to prepare for his first complete year at the helm of the Advanced Studies Program. He spent time reading every application letter, hiring every intern and teacher, and forming the schedule.

“[I] did the best to admit students who could handle the program,” said Mr. Ricard.

One crucial part of the Advanced Studies Program is funding. Mr. Bazos did a lot of work with enhancing financial aid, which Mr. Ricard has continued.
“I want to make the program self sustainable,” said Mr. Ricard. “The main way to do that is to raise money so that we can provide financial aid. The goal is to continuously reevaluate the program, find ways to improve it.”

Feedback from faculty has been consistent and helpful.
“[The teachers] give a lot of feedback, telling me what is going well and what things we could improve,” said Mr. Ricard.

One Assistant Director, Ms. Courtney Jackson, believes Mr. Ricard has done a “tremendous job”.

“He’s had a good presence. He went to every feed and serenade he could. He did a great job expecting excellence, and gives a lot of support for students to reach that. [He] Wants to challenge everyone.”

Mr. Bazos also feels that Mr. Ricard’s hard work has paid off. “I think he’s done an excellent job. [College Day] was the most complicated day. When I saw the students come into the concert, all dressed up and respectful after a very long day, I was impressed. He’s been able to make it work.”

All in all, the strain that is placed on Mr. Ricard is tiring. “[ASP] was lots of work to set up, and gets pretty darn busy when it’s in session. The days run from 8:00am until sometime around 9 or 11 at night. Even with all the work, he still loves his job. “I enjoy being the ‘go to’ person. I try to be an active part of the program, someone that people can approach with questions.”

“The hard work of these different groups [interns, teachers, students] makes the program what it is.” Like many great leaders, Ricard is quick to spread the success to all those involved. Mr. Ricard’s first full year running ASP will be one that will be happily remembered.