While at Berry, I double-majored in political science and religion, but I also took several classes outside my major that had a profound impact on me as well. That class, along with Dr. Cooley's Shakespeare class and the many other classes I took that had nothing to do with my course of study, contributed to what I would like to think was a well-rounded education. When I heard that Dr. Wright was denied tenure this year I was shocked and amazed primarily because it had never occurred to me that my belief that she is one of the finest Berry has to offer was not shared by those who decide the fate of tenure applicants. The marriage of innovation and initiative in one person is rare.
Many people can dream great dreams but have no follow-through.
Others can micro-manage the grunt work but have no capacity for creativity and vision. Dr. Wright is one of the special people who demonstrates both and has allowed Berry to profit from her gifts. Two obvious examples come to mind. In the field of political science, gender studies is becoming more and more ubiquitous. Beyond my discipline, there is a growing respect and demand among the academic community for women's studies.