They also pushed Hennessy to address issues raised by the rising costs of housing in the Stanford area, the most expensive housing market in the country.

They added that they hoped he would follow through on a pledge to address both issues.

Stanford student body president Mike Levin said Hennessy's strong record of listening to students indicates that they will have a voice in deciding how to resolve such concerns.

Hennessy's selection may also be linked to his proven record as a fundraiser--as provost, he recently played a pivotal role in securing a $150 million donation.

Stanford officials were convinced that Hennessy's background formed the perfect mix to lead the school. According to a Stanford University press release, Hennessy was the sole nominee presented to the Board of Trustees. The 17-member search committee reviewed 400 prospects, including three Harvard administrators. The full board concurred unanimously with the committee's choice at a special meeting on April 3.

Hennessy's colleagues at Stanford say the technology-minded provost will now need to broaden his scope.

"Having an engineer there is a great thing," said Jim Plummer, dean of the Stanford Business School. "[But] I think John's priorities are going to be University-wide initiatives," Plummer said.