That Quandary

Now my piece is definitely finished, and I do like it. Of course it could take another form but I like this form, too, and I want to publish this version, not hold it until I have something longer, or more lasting than bronze. I thought I had made a decision but my most recent … More That Quandary

Machiavellian

I have solved my manuscript problem and the solution is very powerful. I am brilliant. This is why people fear me — I can get things done. I have also gotten someone into graduate school this week, fully funded, no mean feat from here, so I am jumping, running, winning. I have remembered another technique … More Machiavellian

Et nunc

Epigraph: message from random faculty member in another college, re my final report to the committee I quit: “Thank you for your time and effort. I know it was not an easy task but you did it with such grace and professionalism, when many would not have.” Now I have to practice what I will … More Et nunc

Qualifications for a Provost…

…and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Our search committee has decided these are the qualities the person needs: “Terminal” degree and record of achievement in teaching, research and service that merits appointment as a tenured professor [here]; Successful career path that demonstrates progressively responsible administrative leadership experience in a vibrant academic setting; Collaborative, transparent, strategic management … More Qualifications for a Provost…

Meilleur encore

I know, I am obsessed, I want this to crystallize just enough and I want to send it somewhere. I have not fully figured out where to send it, so I keep fiddling with it. I want it out. Since I resigned from that committee I have become acutely aware of all the shock and … More Meilleur encore

Another point to be made

…is that last year when there was conservative community outcry against the LGBT Studies program, the university president published a very good response. The academic senate passed a resolution supporting this letter and commending the president for having written it. The following year, under new leadership, the senate, apparently at the direction of some other … More Another point to be made