President says Sorensen taught him the ropes
USC President Harris Pastides would often walk to meetings around campus with Andrew Sorensen.
It was an exasperating process that sometimes frustrated him. Sorensen would chat with students, professors, custodians, visitors and anyone else who would listen.
“I do that now,” Pastides said. “But I’m not sure I would do that without knowing him.”
Pastides said Sorensen’s influence shaped various aspects of his presidency, as he’d often ask his friend for advice on the board of trustees, athletics or a range of other issues. Sorensen dramatically increased the approachability of USC officials to students, faculty, staff and the greater Columbia community,
Pastides said, and those strong relationships were key to a smooth beginning of his presidency.
“He really transformed the relationship between the city and the university,” former Columbia Mayor Bob Coble said. “It was a true partnership.”
Pastides also said Sorensen still believed in Innovista, his brainchild. The two discussed the project last week.
“He said, ‘Hold on, great things are coming,’” Pastides said.