Committed to Carleton

3 November 2010

Laird 100A presidential search is a little bit like a courtship. There is an initial element of infatuation, then there is a deepening of affection, and finally—if all goes well—you reach a point of genuine love, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging. That’s what I am feeling about Carleton as I begin my first year as your president. I am thrilled and humbled to be here—and energized by the possibilities of what we are going to achieve together.

What is it about this place that has captured my heart? I knew, even before I was approached about this position, that Carleton is academically superb and has a nonnegotiable commitment to excellence in the liberal arts. Those values reflect my own passions; they helped draw me to Carleton.

But since I have arrived in Northfield, I am also seeing how Carleton’s academic depth and the way in which students are always at the center of our work are reinforced by other special qualities. I love how Carls have an utter lack of pretension, a joyful sense of humor, and a refusal to take ourselves too seriously, even while the work we are doing is profoundly important. This is all too rare in higher education. 

My first order of business at Carleton is to become, as quickly as I can, an expert in the culture and the values of Carleton. Yes, I’m reading every history book and memoir I can get my hands on, as well as white papers and departmental reports that colleagues have prepared for me. But there are things about Carleton that can’t be learned from books or papers. Since I arrived in the beginning of August, I’ve been listening to trustees, alumni, faculty and staff members, parents, and especially students. I’ve been asking each of these groups to share with me their thoughts about what matters most here, what is fragile and deserving of protection, and what makes Carls so committed to their alma mater. With this kind of knowledge I can do right by this remarkable place. For those whom I haven’t yet had the chance to meet, I invite you to send your thoughts on these questions to president@carleton.edu.

Among the qualities that you’ve told me define Carleton are an assumption of trust and goodwill, intellectual boldness, a focus on teaching and student learning, a love of fun, and an enduring sense of community. You’ve made it clear that Carleton is committed to the liberal arts, need-based financial aid, diversity, sustainability, interdisciplinary thinking, and globalization. You’ve asked me to always steward the precious heritage of the Cowling Arboretum and the McKnight Prairie, promote mentoring relationships between students and faculty and staff, encourage our fine scholar athletes, foster our impressive alumni involvement and generous rates of participation in giving—and, of course, preserve the traditions that set us apart. It will now be my privilege to safeguard and support the essence of Carleton: the magic that takes place when a talented faculty member interacts with a small class of bright students. The knowledge shared and bonds forged in this conversation change lives forever.

This is an absolutely remarkable institution. We can be justly proud of what we are, and we can and should tell Carleton’s story in ways that are genuine and resonate with our values. I intend to work with alumni to raise Carleton’s profile and quality in the years ahead.

Taking care of the College and helping position it so that it will succeed for the long term is a noble task. I look forward to doing this work together with you all! 

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