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

‘Pataphysics

I have never paid enough attention to ‘pataphysics and it had somehow escaped my notice that it was continuing. It is, and Mt. Holyoke has a collection of its publications. Axé.

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…

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