Our readers' voice
College rallies behind dean
We, the Chairpersons in the Departments within the College of Humanities, Social & Behavioral Sciences, wish to express our full confidence in and support for Dean Pamela Gates as the academic and administrative leader of this college, both in her current position of interim dean and in her role as associate dean of the college.
Gates has served CMU for more than 20 years with the highest level of integrity and commitment both to the institution and its students. She understands that the faculty and staff of this college need a safe work environment at all times and deserve the respect of all students. She continuously works to create such an environment.
In the face of a series of escalating challenges - caused by one person over the past six months - Gates has steadfastly assisted faculty in the performance of their duties and responsibilities. In doing so, she has consistently defended the high standards of free speech and academic freedom while at the same time insisting that these fundamental rights be exercised with civility and respect for persons. As a consequence, she herself has become a target. An incident this past Monday, as observed by three frightened eye-witnesses, involved her appropriate defense of her personal space while carrying out her official duties.
We believe that Gates deserves the full, public and unqualified support of the executive leadership of this institution. We encourage CMU to issue such a statement. We are proud to stand publicly with Gates and we ask you to join us.
Cordially,
Timothy D. Hall
Susan M. Knight
Major Gregg Mays
Guy Newland
Hajime Otani
Delbert J. Ringquist
Mary S. Senter
Marcia Taylor
The Chairpersons in the College of Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences
