Le soleil

These shoes are the Merrell Evera Shift and they are heels for biking. I do not need them but I have decided I should indulge my shoe obsession at the planning level as much as possible. I am still learning what I can wear, so this is not a fetishism, it is research. One thing … More Le soleil

In which I am exploited or mistreated by a clueless assistant professor

…and it is the last time, since I am not giving anyone the benefit of the doubt again. One keeps hearing about how assistant professors are mistreated but what about the one I got the job for, and got housing for, and who then, in his first year at the university, left said housing crawling … More In which I am exploited or mistreated by a clueless assistant professor

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…