Bev,
It has been such a privilege to have you as my dean over more than a decade. Whether in personal conversations or larger meetings, you have always been willing to listen, and to consider my perspective. And, whether we agreed or disagreed on the specific matter at hand, I felt that you had genuinely heard my position and respected the positions I took. I am truly grateful for this quality of interaction.
I also would like to thank you for the truly distinctive and robust way that you have supported the humanities at Carleton. From extending funds for student-faculty research collaborations to your dedication to visuality, global and regional studies, and civic engagement, to your asking more than 10 years ago (at a reception at the Strands for the initial Global Engagement Grant) whether the humanities had considered proposing a Summer Academic Program. As I have talked with my colleagues at insititions, large and small, around the country, I have come to realize just how fortunate we have been to have a dean who makes sure that the humanities are “at the table”. Thank you so very much.
Finally, I wish you a wonderful retirement full of reconnection with friends and colleagues, advancement on the meaningful projects that you discussed at the What Matters to Me and Why? event, and lots of relaxing trips to great places for dog walks with Pretzel (and thank you for always asking after Stella!). I look forward to a future of friendship.
Sincerely,
bill