The shaky relationship between the university and its Mexican sister school, Universidad de Las Americas-Puebla, might be restored if the new rector’s plan to repair UDLA’s reputation succeeds.

The university took a positive step March 5 when it announced that Luis Ernesto Derbez, a former Mexican government official, would replace Pedro Angel Palou as rector.

After more than a year of tension, ignited by the unjust censorship of UDLA’s student newspaper, La Catarina, the temporary cancellation of 571 scholarships and the firing of many faculty and staff members, the university is on the right track with Derbez.

Although the university made some sloppy decisions within the past year and jeopardized its relationship with TCU and its accreditation, its decision to repair the damage is admirable and should be recognized. Not only does Derbez hope to repair the school’s relationship with TCU and its standing with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, he also plans to hire 26 new faculty members in the fall and partner with local businesses to offer jobs to students.

Even if all of Derbez’s propositions don’t pan out, at least he is making an effort. And the university’s perseverance in finding leadership that will work for change is worthy of respect. But perhaps the most commendable action of the university is its attempt to own up to its mistakes by listening to those faculty and staff members who were fired without just cause.

Derbez said he plans to “smooth things over” with former faculty and staff members by listening to their side of the issue.

Although UDLA made decisions that had negative effects on its students, faculty and staff, any effort to repair the damage should not be overlooked.