The photograph in the Sunday Citizen showing Dr. Sara Jayne Steen, who just marked her second anniversary as president of Plymouth State University, shows a large, decorative sign above the bookcase in her office. The sign simply states, “IMAGINE.”

Steen's ability to imagine undoubtedly partly explains how she has been able to accomplish as much as she has in two years, including the major change in attitude among many Plymouth officials and residents toward Plymouth State.

“The condition in the community and the relationship is far better than they've ever been and that's because of Sara Jayne Steen,” said Paul SanSoucie, a former Plymouth selectman who, in the 1970s, co-founded the Campus Community Council, a group that gives Plymouth residents and university officials a forum in which they can settle their differences and discuss issues of mutual concern.

Making a concerted effort to be part of the community has been one of Steen's clearly stated priorities since she succeeded Donald Wharton on July 1, 2006.

Permanent peace between town and gown can be elusive, but the sides can achieve detente through good faith and communication.

Steen, in her lengthy interview with The Citizen, took great pride in pointing to Plymouth State's academic achievements and to new developments which are seen as strengthening its reputation. Of particular note is the university's launching of an Ed.D. program for working educators.

Until recently, universities had a tendency to be somewhat insulated, often separating themselves from their neighbors. They operated like old, bohemian neighborhoods once did, as distinct communities that accepted, even encouraged, eccentricity and difference. Today, their role in creating community attitudes has become more important.

It is the sort of atmosphere that Steen finds exhilarating and challenging. She knows that the key to the future lies in building stronger bridges between Plymouth State and Plymouth and surrounding communities.

When Steen was formally installed as Plymouth State's 14th president, University Chancellor Steven Reno said at the time, “Dr. Steen is someone who leads by consensus, but also by decision.”

If the past two years are an accurate indication — and they almost certainly are — Steen is a good fit for both the university and the community.