Confessions of a Fugitive Mind
February 08, 2006
In Which I Lose All Hope
An excerpt from President Berkey's e-mail to faculty and staff:
Such reorganizations and appointments of new officers naturally bring uncertainty, however, and I am not unaware of concern among faculty and staff about financial and job security in the face of significant change. Newly appointed Vice Presidents and managers are expected to take the steps necessary to strengthen their units; managers affected by the reorganizations must adapt to new responsibilities and reporting relationships. Most affected individuals are accepting new roles and responsibilities with enthusiasm, and this is much appreciated. Some, however, inevitably decide that they do not agree with, or wish to participate in, the changes and decide to leave WPI. That is not unexpected, and we accept these decisions with appreciation for what these individuals will have contributed in their time here. Unfortunately, there will be a small number of cases where individuals either will not or cannot adapt to changing expectations, and even actively oppose what is happening. In these cases we will respond with as much compassion and generosity as possible, but the most important determinant of the resolution will be the strengthening of WPI.
I don't know that I can fully express my feelings about this e-mail. I'm enraged, confused, hurt, and growing more bitter by the moment.
This man is fostering an environment of suspicion and back-biting. Although there have been numerous pledges to communicate and "explain our strategies" to the community it's not happening. Sure, there are town hall meetings where the President shares news about the big initiatives, but rumors are flying faster than ever and very little is being done to quell them. I can't blame the President for trying to cover himself with this e-mail, but I think it only makes people more suspicious.
And as for the implication that voicing opposition to new strategies is weakening the university, I can only say that debate is essential to the spirit of academia. I made my misgivings about the new Web strategy clear at my first meeting with the new Vice President of Marketing and Communications and I feel it was my duty to do so. But it is becoming clear that any scrutiny, dissent, or questioning of authority is unwelcome in this administration. I hope that our "most valuable resources" see this for what it is and put a stop to it. Otherwise, budget problems are going to be the least of WPI's worries.
Posted by criminal at February 8, 2006 07:25 PM