The University of Toledo should seek ways for its health science and main campuses to work together, while also pursuing a partnership with another health care provider, said UT presidential candidate Christopher Howard.

Mr. Howard, president of Hampden-Sydney College, a private Virginia college, addressed about 70 university staff, faculty, students, and community members Tuesday in the second of two forums during his multiday visit. Mr. Howard, one of three candidates for the top spot, finished his trip with an exit interview with UT’s board of trustees, who met in closed session.

At a forum at the former Medical College of Ohio, Mr. Howard said the next UT president should work with medical center leaders to develop a model that ensures the clinical enterprise is big enough to support the university’s academic mission.

The issue “will most likely have to be addressed by engaging in a partnership with another health care group,” he said.

He also stressed the university should find opportunities to “create synergy” between its two campuses.

Mr. Howard kept his remarks brief, speaking about 10 minutes, before turning over the remainder of the forum to audience questions.

Mary-Bec Gwyn, associate vice president for branding and creative services, inquired about his leadership style with female leaders. The candidate has spent considerable time in institutions that feature men predominantly, from playing football at the U.S. Air Force Academy, to serving in the military and leading an all-male college since 2009.

“There’s a charge, in some ways, to ensure that women are getting those opportunities because historically there have been instances where they simply have not,” he said.

Asked how he would manage the university’s finances amid dwindling state support, Mr. Howard said he would avoid taking a “slash and burn” approach that rips apart the institution.

“But we all know that in any institution there’s opportunity to make it run more smoothly and more effectively and more efficiently,” he said.

As in his first public forum, Mr. Howard outlined his formula for smart change, prompted by a question from athletic trainer Brian Jones.

“How do you find a way to implement that change, with those folks that still believe that we ought to be functioning in an old-school way and at the same time stay relevant in health care, relevant in higher education, and relevant as an institution and an organization within the community?” Mr. Jones asked.

Tradition matters, Mr. Howard replied, but it can create inertia. He promised change rooted in respect, honesty, and openness.

After meeting with trustees, Mr. Howard said he remains interested in the UT job and had a good visit. He declined further comment.

“We found him to be an outstanding candidate,” said Joseph H. Zerbey IV, chairman of UT's board of trustees and The Blade's president and general manager. “Dr. Howard lived up to be even more than we expected.”

Presidential candidate Michele Wheatly, the former West Virginia University provost, visited last week.

University of Arkansas Provost Sharon Gaber will participate in public forums at 1:30 p.m. Thursday in University Hall at the main campus and at 8:30 a.m. Friday in the Collier Building at the Health Science Campus.

Contact Vanessa McCray at: vmccray@theblade.com or 419-724-6065, or on Twitter @vanmccray.

First Published February 25, 2015, 5:00 a.m.