Just a few thoughts

A question or two about our mission.

One might ask what problem was being solved when the University rewrote its mission statement? Were we not a bunch of proud, upstanding, caring folks before? Exactly what makes us a transformational force for the world? I suppose one could interpret that as anytime I meet with a student it can be a transforming experience for both of us, but did that not take place under the old mission statement? Have any of you asked your students whether they have read the mission statement? Do they understand their obligations under this document? What does celebrate human diversity really mean? There are some folks out there that I see no need in celebrating and they are incredibly diverse.

Given that I think one could drive a truck through the University's mission statement, I have, in all modesty, undertaken to rewrite the mission statement so that it is something other than a statement of truth and beauty or whatever the administration decides it means.


The University of Toledo Community claims the right to examine the past, present and future unfettered by the doctrines of governments, religions, or other dogmas, We claim the right to information, freely sought and freely shared. As such, we use as our guiding principle the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

There you have it. A document that allows for the free exchange of ideas and beliefs. It is something I thought universities were supposed to be about. And just in case you're wondering why I did not produce this when the mission statement was being discussed, I did. I got the usual thank you for your input letter.