News-Record.com

I admit it: I really enjoy listening to Nido Qubein.

The president of High Point University was in top form today, hosting and giving the keynote speech at the annual meeting of the High Point Economic Development Corp.

He talked a lot about the relationship of HPU to the city and stressed that students will be strongly encouraged to get involved in community service activities.

He added an update on some the impressive improvements at the university. (One is the expanded Web site.)

He also crowed just a bit at his doubters. Qubein, in office since January, wasn't a conventional choice to head a university. He didn't have academic credentials or experience other than undergraduate and master's degrees.

He made his name as a businessman, consultant and exceptionally effective motivational speaker.

"In 10 months, we've kicked butt on this campus," he told an audience in the Hayworth Fine Arts Building that included business leaders and elected officials. "They laughed at me. They said if you think you can increase admissions by giving motivational speeches, you're dreaming."

Actually, Qubein's motivational speeches -- and millions of dollars' worth of improvements already completed, with much more to come -- are making believers of even skeptical observers.

One big problem he faced was slumping enrollment. Applications for admission now are rising almost faster than the staff can handle them.

The campus looks great, new buildings are on the way and the excitement level is amazing. This school is going to be the first choice for a lot of bright kids, not the last chance for those with limited options. An academic emphasis on business -- and a social emphasis on values and community service -- will make an HPU education especially relevant.

Yeah, they're kicking it at HPU. Listen to Nido Qubein, and enjoy it.