To me that was high praise. It was not praise of a chancellor or any single individual who held off the attackers. Rather, she was saying something about the ambience of Washington University, an ambience that our chapter of the AAUP played a central role in creating by paying attention to the small as well as the great issues. Third, I am happy with this award because I believe it is recognition of a wonderful tradition at Washington University. It is recognition of what has gone before, but even more important, the award will help to strengthen and perpetuate that tradition as we older folks fade from the scene.
Tradition powerfully shapes actions.
Last week, I went to see our current chancellor, Mark Wrighton. Outside his office hangs the Alexander Meiklejohn Award given to Ethan Shepley in 1959, reminding all who enter that academic freedom is at the heart of Washington University. Forty-one years later, the award given by the AAUP is still influencing behavior in St. Louis. I thank you for reinforcing a great tradition.