Thanks, Bill, for posting your reply. I also got something similar from Dean Vermeulen this morning in response to my e-mail from yesterday.
It's interesting that she puts Dana Gioia out there as the fall guy. Perhaps that's a strategy--just a thought, given that Dana has a lot of practice in negotiating controversial issues. And I say that with respect.
But I suspect it's all much more complicated than she suggests. Certainly it is, based on what I've read here and on Allison Joseph's thread on Facebook.
And I agree with Cathy about the "slap in the face" aspect of the letter.
The Dean's letter to me was slightly different in that she emphasized her commitment to "inclusiveness." She added: "it is important to me that this welcoming environment is sustained, especially for women and people of color." Then she said: "We value your input as we move forward. I hope that you will stay connected as we make this transition."
She also said that "the decision" was "not a sudden one." So I suggested that she send a letter of explanation to all West Chester attendees since it seems sudden to them, and that people are hurt by it.
Charlotte
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