My guess is Bud Holmes and Krandall Howell will fund it for the first year, and Lisa Mader and Company will do the editorializing and newsreporting.  They will all become bored and tired of it all after a year, and it will go away (no one will pay any attention to it anyway).  There's also a good chance it never happens.

 

The Varsity Voice will be funded by the SGA budget, and will be edited by an editor who has already been appointed by President Cain. Fortunately, they are looking for writers.

No, with the help of your fellow peers, not only did the referrendum pass, it passed the student body vote in February as well. None of that money, however, will be going towards the Varsity Voice or other SGA projects. From what I understand, all of it will be going to help alleviate parking woes and construction costs, as well as study abroad initiatives. However, the decision to implement this passed referrendum lay in the hands of Former President Loftus, as he was the one who initiated the whole project, and as he is the one who was supposed to present it before the IHL board. Whether he did or not, I do not know.

Ok, so fellow students should have been the words that I should have used.

Anyway, again to answer your question...
"None of that money [the $40 aformentioned], however, will be going towards the Varsity Voice or other SGA projects."

quote:

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Originally posted by: EagleFever
"Ok, so fellow students should have been the words that I should have used. "

---

 

That's exactly the assumption I was pointing out...big assumption there.

From what I understand, there will be some changes in store for both publications, the Student Printz and the Varsity Voice, in regards to how they will operate.

quote:

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Originally posted by: EagleFever
"From what I understand, there will be some changes in store for both publications, the Student Printz and the Varsity Voice, in regards to how they will operate."

---

 

How can the future SGA rag have "changes in store" when it hasn't even begun publishing?

quote:

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Originally posted by: EagleFever
"One would think so, yes. However, it really does not matter, seeing that the SGA gets a budget that is only fit for 8,000 students much less than it is for 16,000 students."

---

 

Again, you evaded my question.  I see where you stand...

By the way, you'd better check that number...I don't think Hattiesburg campus is quite up to 16,000--remember, Shelby got in trouble for that brand of inflation.

Since you refuse to answer two very simple questions, let me just say that if SGA would make an authentic effort to represent ALL of their constituents, then perhaps more than one-tenth of the HUB campus students would participate in elections.  I think that this more than anything else shows how completely irrelevant SGA has become. A newspaper won't change that.

I have not answered your questions, because I do not have the answers that you are looking for. I am no administrator. Just a mere student like you (if you are a student).

In regards to the editorial control, I highly doubt that Dr. Thames will. But then again, I have no clue where he stands on the issue, as I do not talk to him on a regular basis. However, the changes in store for both publications that I mentioned earlier have nothing to do with him.

In regards to the bugdet, again I do not know, but I would think so, as that is the only way that SGA is being funded.

In regards to the comment on SGA Elections. I really did not wish to voice my opinion on this matter, but please keep in mind that only one-tenth of the population
(be it a school of 15,000 OR 16,000) of ENROLLED STUDENTS at Southern Miss are truly concerned with this entire Professor controversy, as it is evident with the turnout at the 'demonstrations'.

Correction, the UAC officers are elected, just not by the student body.

Have a good night.

quote:

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Originally posted by: EagleFever
"I am just a concerned and well informed student just like you. "

---

You think so? 

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by: USM Sympathizer
"   I wonder if the folks at the Printz have heard that "changes [are] in store" for them?  I wish EagleFever had elaborated on this point and explained exactly what kinds of "changes" are "in store."  "

---

I don't think I would pay EF's assertions much thought if I were Printz staff.

When fall comes, a new president will be in the dome.  The day Shelby resigns, many SGA members will be brokenhearted, so let's show them a little compassion.  *wink*

And, who came up with the title "The Varsity Voice"??  I feel like I've been transported into the bobbysoxed, gofightwin megaphoned, goldfishswallowing era of rah rahs. That name had to come from ST -- those days had to truly be the ones that he, as a person in his 20's, relished and continues to relish as the best days of his so-called life.

Oh, I know I'm being petty, but a NEW student newspaper?? Pahleeze.

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"First of all, I highly doubt Dr.  Thames will demand editorial control over the Printz.  I think he has bigger things to worry about. From what I have been told, the concept of the Varsity was one of a student government committee under Dr. Fleming’s Administration, if I am not mistaken.  I think it must have been at least 4 or 5 years ago or more.  In regards to the name ‘Varsity Voice’, the Freshman Branch of Student Government began using the name last year in a monthly flyer of SGA Events, which was distributed out to the students in Shoemaker Square.I know several people in the SGA, and trust me, I know that the majority of them are NOT in it for something to put on their résumé, or for the money (because there is hardly any money there).  So, this is a small minority of SGA members that you would be referring to.  On the other hand, it has been said that if you don’t like something, then fix it.  It doesn’t cost a cent to join the SGA and make a difference in the lives of your fellow students. I would like to challenge you, the concerned readers, to do exactly what Dr. Joe Paul has asked you to do, “leave this university better than when you found it.”  If you see something wrong within the SGA, join it, and make the necessary provisions to fix it. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” --Mahatma Gandhi "

---

 

LOL! Your first sentence shows how little you know about the recent history under the Thames administration.  He already HAS attempted to assert editorial control of the Printz, but the editor refused to grant it to him.  The editor told of Mader screaming through the phone at him--it was really funny how angered Thames and Darth Mader became because the editor wouldn't give them the right to approve all articles published in the Printz.

As far as changing SGA from the inside--there's really no use in doing that.  Decapitating this administration will prove more effective.  You work to better USM your way, and we'll work to better it our way.

It will be a better place the day after Thames is gone--at that point, we will have done our job.

By the way, I think it is funny that you are quoting Ghandi to support your SGA line, especially since Ghandi believed in the form of nonviolent protest against oppression in which our side is now engaged.  Read up on Ghandi and see which side is better represented by his philosophy.

I have to also add that anyone who thinks people are in the SGA NOT to pad their resume is a moron. Save that "make this place better" bs for someone else.

quote:

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Originally posted by: truth4usm
"Thanks for your comment about the student protesters being civil.  But, don't SGA officers get a $1000 semester tuition scholarship?  If I had known that as a student, I might have run for SGA, too!"

---

Yes, they do.

quote:

---

Originally posted by: EagleFever
" I really did not wish to voice my opinion on this matter, but please keep in mind that only one-tenth of the population (be it a school of 15,000 OR 16,000) of ENROLLED STUDENTS at Southern Miss are truly concerned with this entire Professor controversy, as it is evident with the turnout at the 'demonstrations'."

---

Who says that every student who is CONCERNED about the current crisis must protest in order to be counted as a CONCERNED student?  Eagle Fever, I think you need to take a course in Critical Thinking from some of the esteemed (but much beleagured and severely underpaid) Liberal Arts professors at USM.

quote:

---

Originally posted by: truth4usm
"Who says that every student who is CONCERNED about the current crisis must protest in order to be counted as a CONCERNED student?  Eagle Fever, I think you need to take a course in Critical Thinking from some of the esteemed (but much beleagured and severely underpaid) Liberal Arts professors at USM."

---

You made a great point.  But I highly doubt that even half the student body (certainly not the entire student body) wants the same actions taken against Dr. Thames, such as the demonstrators have so adamantly demanded.  But then again, I could be completely wrong.

quote:

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Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"You made a great point.  But I highly doubt that even half the student body (certainly not the entire student body) wants the same actions taken against Dr. Thames, such as the demonstrators have so adamantly demanded.  But then again, I could be completely wrong."

---

Even if only half the student body wants Thames gone, that's still more than the 1/10 that participated in SGA elections.  Like I said, SGA has become completely irrelevant.

But, let's go into your logic a little bit.  From what fount of info do you draw your conclusion that not even half the students at USM want Thames canned?  I would LOVE to hear this.

Why would you think that the percentage of students who want Thames fired would not resemble the percentage of faculty who do, as their no confidence vote demonstrated?

There's another question I want to ask you, re: something you said above.  When you said that Thames would not want editorial control of the paper, and I told you that he had already attempted to force such, you said that that was the past, and you are talking about the future, that he would not do such in the future.  I really want to know what kind of logic you used to come to that conclusion.  Thames' has showed no changes in his totalitarian style of management--why do you think he will change in the future.

I don't know if you are heavily involved in SGA, but perhaps you need a better perspective--perhaps you should spend a little time with students who don't toe the SGA/administration line, because it seems to me that you are doing nothing more than repeating whatever spin you hear. 

It appears you lead an insulated existence.

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
" Actually, I would love to spend more time with students with different opinions regarding this issue.  Now I don't quite understand what you mean by me leading an 'insulated existence,' but if you were referring to me as living an uninformed life as a student, I would like to beg to differ with you.  I am regularly out and about on campus, and have friends with many different viewpoints and come from all walks of life.  Believe or not, I try to concern myself in matters which are important to the students of this university.  Yes, I have even attened the demonstrations.  I really enjoy hearing student input on all sides of the spectrum in any argument regarding Southern Miss.  I mean that with all sincerity.  Unfortunately for me however, I have not ran across a student on campus who is on the opposing side of this controversy, and wanted to civilly converse with me about it."

---

Have you even tried engaging anyone at the protests in a discussion about the controversy?   I am sure of the hundreds who have attended them, you could easily find people who would discuss the issues with you.

Some students are angry, no doubt.  They were there the day the cops barred the two profs from their offices.  And they have been on campus longer than you have--they have seen the downward spiral that USM has taken since Shelby took the helm.  They have experiences in academia to which to compare the present climate, so they know that what Shelby is doing to USM is WRONG.

Your willingness to disregard all negativity about Thames and to continue supporting him is, uh,...well, you have unshakeable school spirit, I guess.

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
" Who's to say I have not been here since the beginning of Dr. Thames' administration?  Because indeed I have.  Granted, I did not like the way that Dr. Thames has handled every situation since he has taken office, I feel obligated to support him and the progress that he has made until he is proven guilty.  I know that I will make a lot of enemies by saying what I am about to say, but it does trouble me, and is downright disheartening to me to see people, especially faculty and staff, take such grave stances of hatred against him.  In fact, it makes me feel as if I cannot trust any faculty of staff member at this University, for fear of difference of opinion.  It surely prompts me question things now that I have, in the past, always come to assume.  Yes, he has made many people very angry at the steps that he has taken to further advance this university.  Yes, he has made some rash calls and decisions without addressing the proper channels (including the feelings of USM's primary customers - the students) beforehand.  No, the man has not committed murder.  So why act as if he did such?  At least give the man the decency of respect that each human SHOULD portray to one another.  He still holds the title of President, and even if he didn't he still is a man that makes mistakes.  Ok, I am sure that comment alone will cause people's temperatures to rise.  Let me say something unrelated to show you what I mean.  It is in my opinion that Bill Clinton is probably the worst President that the U.S. has ever seen.  Although he may have done the U.S. a lot of good in regards to foriegn relations, I feel that his "Dirty Laundered Presidency" put shame to the entire nation.  However!  Should Mr. Clinton come up to me tomorrow and shake my hand, I would give that man the same respect that I have given you, and that I continue to give to everyone that I come in contact with.  It's just the right and respectable thing to do as a human being-- but I guess that most people just don't see it the same way that I do. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, "Don't criticize your enemies.  They are just what you would be under similar circumstances." Unshakable school spirit.  I like that!  It is true too.  And I do wish to commend you and everyone else who is on the other side of the fence than me on this issue.  I must say that you all have a sense of unshakable school spirit as well for standing up for what you believe in and for striving to make this university a better place. "

---

Wow.  You feel obliged to support him?  I don't support people out of obligation, but then I am not on the SGA dole.  Like someone above said, I think you need to work on your critical thinking skills.

Thames has lost any chance of receiving respect from me--he treated Glamser and Stringer in the most disrespectful manner I have ever seen a professional treated.  I don't give respect to people who don't earn it.

So you only trust faculty who have the same opinion as you?  At last count, that leaves, what, 30 professors on campus you trust?  Your comment doesn't surprise me, though, because it is obvious you have a ways to go before you develop the ability to think critically. 

Best wishes to you as you persue your goals in life. 

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
 . . . . I feel obligated to support him and the progress that he has made until he is proven guilty.  I know that I will make a lot of enemies by saying what I am about to say, but it does trouble me, and is downright disheartening to me to see people, especially faculty and staff, take such grave stances of hatred against him.  In fact, it makes me feel as if I cannot trust any faculty of staff member at this University, for fear of difference of opinion.  It surely prompts me question things now that I have, in the past, always come to assume.  Yes, he has made many people very angry at the steps that he has taken to further advance this university.  Yes, he has made some rash calls and decisions without addressing the proper channels (including the feelings of USM's primary customers - the students) beforehand.  No, the man has not committed murder.  So why act as if he did such?  At least give the man the decency of respect that each human SHOULD portray to one another.  He still holds the title of President, and even if he didn't he still is a man that makes mistakes. 

---

In fact, despite my disagreements with President Thames, I have shaken his hand and he has in fact been quite cordial to me. I suspect most people would observe these relatively simple civil kindnesses so I reject your argument that Dr. Thames has been dissed.This does not necessarily reflect private discussions I might have about him, any more than I would expect his private discussions about me to not reflect the true nature of his feelings and his beliefs about me.

I also reject your assertion that Dr. Thames has not committed murder. He has committed murder: he has murdered trust through many of his actions. Specifically, these actions have been aimed at creating a system of control in which faculty are intimidated and threatened. It is tedious to have to repeat the history of these actions which have not delivered progress, but have in fact brought this university nearly to its knees. As a faculty member, I can tell you just how difficult it would be to get 431 of us to vote for any single thing. That never would have happened one year ago. In one year, this President has so mismanaged his relationship to the faculty that he has lost virtually all of his significant support. Most of those 431 did not begin as "anti-Thames" faculty members. That is what they have become at the end of a very long and unhappy history of Presdential abuse of power. 

I don't know whether you have been at many other universities. This my my ninth ( five as a faculty member and two of these with tenure.) What is happening here is extraordinary in academia -- and its exceptionality is due entirely to the way in which this President has seized power, refused to share it in any significant way, and has used that power to undermine his own faculty. The "rash calls" and "decisions" which you seem to minimize have, on the faculty side, been disasters. If you think I am exaggerating, please remember the vote. The "mistakes" he has made were not the unintended mistakes common to anyone undertaking a leadership role, but the mistakes of someone whose philosophy of leadership and management is antithetical to not only academic practice, but to humane business practice (if one must insist on seeing the university as a business).

If people are angry, and that anger is beginning to emerge, it is because they are desperate to start fixing the university before it is damaged further. I have felt the change in climate in the last six years, I have watched colleagues leave, I have heard colleagues express fear. You cannot work effectively or pleasurably in the climate that this President's administration has brought to this university.

If Dr. Thames respected this university (and those of us who work and study here) he'd see that his actions have caused so much destruction and anger that it cannot be fixed as long as he is here. And that is precisely because he cannot change, will not acknowlege his part in this. I've had a privileged enough vantage point to see that. You cannot imagine how difficult it has been to try to work with him. It is difficult to work with someone whose attitude is "it's my way or the highway." I've watched good people, far better than I, try and fail. I've watched people like yourself -- good folks, optimistic and believing -- become bitter, angry, and converted as they have realized that there is no such hope, no such evidence that the President will ever change.

So please -- when you discuss respect,  think about the fact that we have a President who is too full of pride and anger himself to do what is best for the university -- no matter how much it threatens the university's reputation or its ability to do its business.

 

I could go on and on.

KeepTheFaith: I agree with you 100% on Bill Clinton (I am a Bush guy) but I DISAGREE 100% with everything else you said.

I basically AGREE 100% with everything Present Professor says because I love this university I hate to see it become third tier behind Jackson State, which it is rapidly becoming. I donnot mean guys, to denigrate JSU.

At the rate we are headed, we will be fourth sooner than many realize.

Present Professor's observation that it is almost PREPOSTEROUS that one could find over 400 professors on ANY campus to agree about anything is the most true statement I have seen. I posted earlier that the 430 included liberals, moderates, conservatives, and even some "arch" conservatives. Yeah, we have them at USM.

And also my dear esteemed SGA KeepTheFaith one, Present Professor is right on in pointing out to you, sir, in all due respect that your "company" of faculty at this university includes all of 30 profs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I myself was astounded that his support was almost nonexistant. LIke PP says, one never finds such overwhelming minorities and majorities on college campuses, never. Yet we do.

I suspect KTF would really "like" Thames to be worth of respect and a good guy who really wants mainly to just change USM for the better. We all do.

It is not true, unfortunately, no matter how much you want it to be. Just look at the vote.

BTW, most students who appear apathetic do care and if they had a vote, would not be concerned at all if we had a change in leadership.

It's a retelling of Macbeth.

We could call this one Macpolymer

quote:

---

Originally posted by: JustAsking
""

---

Just Asking:

your small paragraph said more than most of what the rest of us have spilled out. We teach and research not to enrich ourselves (though that would be nice) but to transform the lives of those whose contributions (we hope) will enrich society economically, culturally, socially, spiritually. I don't need to be bought with the promise of personal wealth to work here -- what matters to me is that I am contributing to the lives of those who will, I hope, act on the learning they receive to be better people, to make society better and (perhaps) to make the lives of themselves and their children more comfortable. We teach in the present to make a better future. Maybe that is a little corny, but I think if you scratch most professors, that is what you will find.

 Brava "educator" and "invictus."

Fire Shelby-  You are right again my friend.  I try not to think to critically, however I do try to think optimistically.  Also, thank you for not reacting too harsh to my comments. I do appreciate the respect that you have given me, even though I am probably considered 'the enemy' in this argument. 

Believe it or not, I have given your comments much thought, and the rest of the comments that I have heard and seen from Anti-Thames supporters.  And as I was going to bed last night, I recalled a very scarring event that happen to me personally, which has changed my perspective completely on greedy "it's all about me" clergy and the church.  Now, I will not touch on the subject of religion, because it is completely off topic, but lets just say that a former pastor of whom I had a great deal of respect and admiration for fired two very close friends of mine.  One was my youth choir director and the other was our youth group director.  Lets just say, like you guys have claimed with Dr. Thames, this pastor gave bogus and ludicrus reasons for firing these two people, whom were loved by all in the church.  Ever since then, I do not frequent the church more than maybe twice a year, and am respectably disrespectful to the pastor when he approaches me, and he knows exactly why.  The decisions that he made hurt me still to this day.  In fact, I highly doubt that he even realizes the reprocussions that he has caused to the youth and to the future of 'his church', because he feels that he walks on water too and is untouchable.  So, now after carefully exhorting my 'critical thinking skills', I completely sympathize your point of view and do feel for you and the rest of the Anti-Thames supporters.  Thank you for letting me come to that appreciation.

Present Professor-  Thank you for showing a student, who does not know and is not close to many faculty members, what the faculty is feeling and is going through right now.  After reading what you have shared with us, I agree with your comments completely.  All along, I thought that these 431 faculty members were Anti-Thames throughout his entire term.  However, the reprocussions of his actions are obviously what is attributed to this enormous vote of no confidence.  Thank you.  You have shown students, from a faculty members perspective, how hard it is for a you all to work with Dr. Thames.  I must say however that even though I do not know Dr. Thames, and his tendencies, half as well as the faculty does, he seems to be fair with the students that I have witnessed him come in contact with.  And again, although I did not agree with how he has handled several situations since he has taken office, I must say that, up until March, I feel he has worked real hard to put Southern Miss on the top of the list as far as bringing more money and recognition to this university.  I do give him credit.  The man has gumption for making some of the decisions that he made to try to bring this university to where it is (before March, obviously).  I could never make some of those decisions!  It am sure it took a lot of courage to stand up in front of people and tell them that this is the way it is... and consolidate a university into 5 colleges.  Which, I am sure that everyone will refute my comments in regards to the consolidation, but with talking to Dr. Thames myself, it is my understanding that doing that brought an extra $2 million back to the university.

usmstudent- Unfortunately, you are wrong.  Do you seriously think that there are only 5 people within the SGA, and that all 5 must pay grosses of money in order to win?  Granted, it may seem like it to many, there really is a lot more students involved in it than you think.  You do not have to be an executive officer to make changes internally and externally within the SGA.  It costs nothing to become an SGA Senator, which in my opinion is the most powerful branch of SGA.  And the only way a student would have to run for senate is if there are two many applicants running in one college.  Aside from senate, there is Judicial Board, which hears all student ticket appeals, and the President's cabinet, as well as the Freshman Branch of government.  So no, there is a place for everyone within the SGA and unless you are running for an executive office...SGA does not cost a dime.

wary undergrad- Although I am going out on a limb to say this... I agree with you.  I personally feel that the Varsity Voice might be just a waste of resources, and is not needed.  However the new website that should be implemented by the summer time will be a great step in the right direction!

In regards to involving myself more with the students' concerns right now, what are some suggestions?  I, myself, am open to hearing other students' concerns, and all sides of the issues... but I just do not know how to approach the situation nicely and recieve concrete feedback in return.  What would you suggest I do to hear the students' out?

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"
wary undergrad- Although I am going out on a limb to say this... I agree with you.  I personally feel that the Varsity Voice might be just a waste of resources, and is not needed.  However the new website that should be implemented by the summer time will be a great step in the right direction!
In regards to involving myself more with the students' concerns right now, what are some suggestions?  I, myself, am open to hearing other students' concerns, and all sides of the issues... but I just do not know how to approach the situation nicely and recieve concrete feedback in return.  What would you suggest I do to hear the students' out?"

---

I would suggest that you approach people more often when you are around campus. Walk up to tables set up around campus as you see them and ask the people there how things are going- just be more personable. Does the current SGA have a cabinet of members from each of the student organizations? I know that there was one in the past- in light of recent events, it might be feasible to create one again. That way, you are almost guaranteed to hear grievances, or praises, that students may have at the university. It will also keep the SGA up on events around campus, since most commuter students belong to at least one student organization on campus, but may not be involved in fraternities or sororities.
As far as the website, I think it is a great idea.
But it should include a way for students to contact the SGA.
I guess the bottom line of what I'm trying to say, is that if you want support from us, you have to make a concentrated effort to show that you support us. These are just some suggestions that may help establish better ties with the student body.

I wonder how many of the readers are aware of the fact that Shelby summoned the editor (then Robbie Ward) and the Printz advisor to a meeting in Carl Nicholson's office. Someone must have pointed out to Thames that he was playing with fire and he postponed this indefinitely ... however, don't y'all find it very interesting that the "president" of Southern scheduled this meeting in the offices of Nicholson. Dear Lord, am I glad I am gone ... btw, I KNOW this. I was a tenured professor (associate, not to fall into the same trap our friend Angie did) in the School of Mass Comm and Journalism ... so y'all wanna know who is behind the Varsity Voice? I'll tell you: Carlie, Shelby and Lisa (what exactly did she do in the offices of the mayor and the governor???)

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"You can say that if you wish, but I almost 100% certain that this was an endeavor that current SGA President Walt Cain thought of all on his own, without any prior discussion or comrodarie for that matter from Dr. Thames' administration.  Had he asked for my input, I would have suggested an alternative route that I have thought about for a long time now."

---

Ya know, it would really be helpful to you if you would check your earlier messages on this very thread so that you can keep your story straight.

Re: Your post two days ago, in this very thread:

From what I have been told, the concept of the Varsity was one of a student government committee under Dr. Fleming’s Administration, if I am not mistaken.  I think it must have been at least 4 or 5 years ago or more.  In regards to the name ‘Varsity Voice’, the Freshman Branch of Student Government began using the name last year in a monthly flyer of SGA Events, which was distributed out to the students in Shoemaker Square.

But now you say that Walt came up with it?  So, which is it??

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"My apologies, I did not make myself clear enough.  Thank you for pointing that out.  The 'Varsity Voice' that was passed around last year by the Freshman branch of government was merely a flyer which attempted to update the student body on the recent events going on with the SGA.  The Varsity Voice that President Cain wishes to establish is more of a complete publication, comprable to the Student Printz, and unlike last year's flyers which were passed out in Shoemaker Square.  And story behind the title 'Varsity Voice' was merely a suggestion made to the Freshman branch by another SGA member last year.  Mr. Cain aparently chooses to continue the name, as he is adamant about the promotion of the entire Varsity concept.  Hope this clears things up."

---

Uh huh.  That's not what you said in the earlier post.  Go back and read it in context.  You said that the concept for the Varsity Voice newspaper, not  the newsletter, originated in the Fleming administration--you said that to counter others' opinions (informed opinions) that Shelby would exert editorial control over the student newspaper.

quote:

---

Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"First of all, I highly doubt Dr.  Thames will demand editorial control over the Printz.  I think he has bigger things to worry about. 

From what I have been told, the concept of the Varsity was one of a student government committee under Dr. Fleming’s Administration, if I am not mistaken.  I think it must have been at least 4 or 5 years ago or more.

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What I meant in regards to the editorial control-- I know that Dr. Thames has in the past tried hard to get control over the newspaper.  Whether Dr. Thames will be in office in the near future or not, I know that there are talks in regards to the future of both the Printz and the Voice being held to some form of standard.  This idea has not been spearheaded WHATSOEVER by Dr. Thames' administration.  That is what I meant with that issue.

I stated that "the Varsity was one of a student government committee under Dr. Fleming’s Administration, if I am not mistaken."  The CONCEPT of the Varsity-- not to be mistaken with the title the 'Varsity Voice'-- is another name for the student body, and everything that encompasses it.  The name 'Varsity' came under Dr. Flemming's administration (again, if I am not mistaken--it could've even been Dr. Lucas' administration, but I know it was several years before Dr. Thames' administration.)  And the 'Varsity Voice' came as a suggestion to the Freshman Branch, last year, after they wanted to start a monthly flyer to inform the student body on what the SGA has been doing, and what is to come in the coming month.

Sorry, I know it is confusing, but I hope that I cleared the facts up, finally.

quote:

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Originally posted by: KeepingTheFaith
"Present Professor-   . . . . . Which, I am sure that everyone will refute my comments in regards to the consolidation, but with talking to Dr. Thames myself, it is my understanding that doing that brought an extra $2 million back to the university."

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Sorry I did not get back to acknowlege your message until now. But thank you. I think you have been very good to continue this dialogue on this page -- and I am glad that you understand now that the anger now directed at Dr. Thames from faculty (and many staff) did not happen overnight.

I agree with you -- I think the President believes in what he is doing and, in his own way, cares about students. That said, I think he has a very limited vision for what a truly "great" university is -- and that limitation is exacerbated by a sad kind of hubris in which the President seems to believe that it is his job to put his shoulders to the great stone that is USM and roll it up the hill -- like Sisyphus -- a lone hero opposing the inertia that resists change. It is unfortunate that he believed from the beginning that faculty would oppose change rather than assuming otherwise. As I have said elsewhere -- faculty don't see change as an enemy. We live in an envrionment that is in constant change -- you cannot work with young people and not somehow embrace the change that they represent and bring with them. But, as human beings, and especially as critically thinking human beings, faculty want to be -- need to be -- involved in how change will happen and how we can shape its effects to the best advantage of our institutions, our students, and ourselves.

I think you will find great doubt about the 2 mil supposedly saved. Adding up all the new administrative positions (Hanbury's 140,000 represents almost 7% that figure by itself) and lots of other pay issues doesn't quite add up to the savings (supposed to be shifted over to the classroom remember) that was touted. Now I am not saying that you are wrong -- only that there is quite a bit of skepticism out here where it is well-remembered that our administration seems to suffer from a consistent case of math deprivation syndrome (MDS) when it comes to the reporting of numbers.

Anyway, keep up your posts -- you are a brave soul to keep up the conversation and maintain its civility and there is a great deal to respect in that.

 

quote:

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Originally posted by: educator
"Present professor - great reply and equally brave voice. Eventually, this small (?) determined body will prevail and this Univ. might receive positive recognition as a place thriving with academic and research-oriented voices. I hope so.  I don't think that anyone with the last name of Thames will be residing in this community when the walls come tumbl'n down."

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Thanks -- and let me return the compliment.

I think we need a "coming out" party when the great day of liberation comes. I have in mind copious libations and many us wearing our FS "ID's". I'm really very curious to meet all of these voices -- even some of the folks who aren't in our camp but who have spoken thoughtfully and well.

I agree with you -- we can turn this thing around and make it into an advantage. If the admin comes down and the faculty. staff  and students really push to have an honest and open Presidential search where we are really involved, I believe we can get a good Prez. Because I think that there is someone out there who can see how much stronger this can make us under a regime that is principled, ambitious and visionary. And I think we will be in a great position to say to the Board and to the some of the power brokers who manipulated the last search: "No way -- you F****ed up the last one so step aside and watch." I know it won't be quite like that, but I think the Board owes us some slack on this one and I think we should take it. We might be the first Free University in the State of Mississippi.