To The Editor:
I am extremely bothered by the possibility that Professor Court may not be hired back next year. I feel that if this decision is a tremendous mistake and needs to be granted extreme reconsideration.
This school prides itself on its strong Jesuit identity, which is deeply rooted and founded upon a solid commitment to education. It promises to provide a learning environment that fosters questioning and exploration- one that produces the most well rounded individuals.
Here is a professor who is a proponent of the goals and values of this school- a living model of the well rounded person the Jesuits cherish, and yet we may throw him away simply because “he is no longer needed” now that an excessive demand for more introductory classes has been satisfied. This university needs to realize that he is needed for reasons more important than this.
He is dedicated to learning and it shows. I have met few people as intelligent, eloquent, and enthusiastic about his profession. If you ask, he will tell you that he has the greatest job in the world. It is very obvious Professor Court is a person who values education. It is the intangible benefits that drive him; the very same things I feel our university is overlooking. If they truly felt the same then they would do everything in their power to keep such a tremendous asset at this school.
The loss of Professor Court could not be measured. Using financial or scheduling reasons for his leaving the school is quantifying a situation that requires consideration further than the black and white. What he brings to class every day goes beyond any traditional textbook or conventional lecture.
Professor Court connects with his students in a way that many other professors do not, no matter how qualified, intelligent, or experienced they may be. He shows a genuine concern for each of them. Students respect and admire him and actually look forward to time spent in his classroom. He challenges them to look beyond the accepted and examine their world. He challenges them to challenge themselves. This is the mark of a great teacher.
As a prospective student, Fairfield’s commitment to academics was a main factor on which I based my final decision. And yet, everyday I see signs that this commitment is not being lived up to. If Professor Court is not here at Fairfield next semester it may be a disappointing indication that the business of our university is ruling over its academic aspirations. In letting him go, the university would not only be doing itself a huge disservice, but it would be compromising the core beliefs and values this Jesuit institution was founded upon.
That is why I hope the university will make the right decision by extending Professor Court’s contract into next year so that he may continue to connect, inspire and do what he loves most: teach.
Sincerely,
Ashlee Fox Class of 2006
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