He said he feels the Chinese program, which is part of the Institute of Linguistics and Asian and Slavic Languages, is a critical part of the University curriculum. He added that he is in the process of strengthening the program through new faculty hirings. But Chen said she and the program can't wait for help any longer. She spends her day alternating between teaching undergraduates, assisting graduates and administrating the program. Her office is testimony to her pack-rat tendencies and overworked lifestyle.
Folders nearly spill their bulging contents onto the floor.
She must step atop a swivel desk chair to reach important documents and papers on the top shelf. The other, Professor Stephen Wang, is on sabbatical this year. The failure to hire more faculty after repeated promises has contributed to Chen's stress and poor health, she said. Rosenstone said he authorized one faculty search. He also said he did not know of Chen's illness until a few weeks ago, when she requested leave from one class this quarter.