As a researcher, I've sought to emulate Robert Goldberg, a professor in the U's History Department. Bob taught me the importance of engaging in meaningful research, and he took the time to show me how to write in a plain and simple language, free of the jargon one finds in esoteric journals aimed at tiny, elitist academic niches. Those are just two professors whose contributions have had a lasting impact on me. There are so many other women and men to whom I owe an enormous intellectual debt. Sadly, we students often forget to say thank you to a good professor.
Professors are the forgotten heroes and heroines of our society.
To be certain, there is a darker side to academia. On virtually every campus in America, petty departmental skirmishes, humdrum lecturers, and the occasional intellectual bully are as inevitable as death and taxes. But one need not search hard at the University of Utah for the women and men who endeavor to enlighten and, in the process illuminate new horizons.