Machen calls Kone's apology 'one step' forward

Dr. Bruce Kone's recent apology was a step toward mending his fractured relationship with some faculty, but the University of Florida medical school dean has more work left to do, according to UF President Bernie Machen.

Kone apologized to the College of Medicine's Faculty Council on Tuesday, saying he was wrong to send an e-mail to UF leaders that denigrated the university and the community. The apology, Machen said, is "one step in the right direction."

"You can't solve the discontent that's been generated over there in a short period of time, but I think it's definitely a positive step," Machen said.

Kone still maintains that he acted within his authority as dean to admit a student from a politically connected family, even when the Medical Selection Committee opposed the candidate. Kone apologized, however, for his reaction to the fallout from the admissions case.

In what he described as a fit of anger and frustration, Kone sent an e-mail last month to Machen and other senior administrators suggesting UF was "stuck in mediocrity" and situated in a "small town" full of "small minds." Machen said he's still worried about Kone's communication skills, although he applauds the accomplishments the dean has made in his first year.

"I'm worried about his management style," Machen said. "But I am absolutely excited about his vision and the direction he's trying to move."

So is Kone's apology enough to put the issue to rest? Apparently not.

"It can't be over yet," Machen said. "You judge people by what they do over time, so this is a positive step forward that he took last night and I think he's going to work to gain the trust of the faculty over time."

Jack Stripling can be reached at 352-374-5064 or Jack.Stripling@gvillesun.com.