For the third time, Professor Kodera petitions for an introductory course on Asian American Studies. This time, his request is approved. Professor William Cain becomes Chair of the American Studies department. Cain shows interest in diversifying the American Studies program, including through the furthering of Asian American Studies at Wellesley. The future of the course depends on the number of students enrolled in the course.
Enrollment is high.
The Committee on Curriculum and Instruction, chaired by Associate Dean Andrew Shennan, approves the move to house Asian American Studies within American Studies. Few professors, however, express an interest in teaching this course on their own. Some are willing, but because they are coming up for tenure, they cannot commit to teaching this course until after they receive tenure. Others are interested in giving a few lectures but not in teaching the entire course. At this time, Kodera is the only committed faculty member with tenure.