What a Zingger

The day after the riot in Downtown Chico, I got a chance to see the character of a University official shine. Chico State's President Paul Zingg is well known for he adoring character. He has expressed his passion for baseball and can be seen regularly at CSUC baseball games. But he also knows when to be a leader. He has continued to push the education of the campus to higher standards not giving in to the party image that the campus is known for.

This character truly makes him an appealing individual. There is always a particular detachment from school officials and thier students. The students are always looking to be cool and hip, while the officials are trying to be stearn and controlled. It is a stereotype for a reason. That is why I appreciate CSUC President Paul Zingg; he breaks the stereotype.

After the riot he called for a press conference with other university, city, county, and community officials to respond to the events. "This is not how we are going to be defined," Zingg said, not by "bonfires in the middle of the street ... that puts our city servants at risk." He took action to stand for something he felt needed to be addressed.

Paul Zingg, president of Chico State University, speaks to members of the press during a press conference Friday outside the City Council chambers to talk about Thursday's night riot at Sixth and Chestnut streets. (Jason Halley/Chico Enterprise-Record)

What makes him more special than other administrators was his actions later that night at the Chico State men's basketball game. I saw Zingg enter the stands enjoying the school's activities. Later in the first half I saw Zingg leave the community side of the stands and head over to the students side of the stands. He took off his sports coat as he hopped up with the fans and cheered them on as any fan would do.

Chico State President Paul Zingg (center) cheers with the Rowdy Red group against San Francisco State in the first half Friday at Acker Gym. (Jason Halley/Chico Enterprise-Record)

Some people might look at this behavior as fueling the party image, but I do not. I appreciate a University President who can show leadership in the morning by denouncing hostile actions from partying, yet still show the community how to have a safe and fun good time with the activities the University provides. Good job Zingg, I applaud you and your fanatic personality. It tells students it is ok to have a good time. Do it safe, do it fun.