Oh UVa.

I've been sporadically following the developments in C-ville concerning the resignation of President Sullivan over the past few weeks. All I can say is that I'm extremely sad by what is happening at my school. Even though I doubt it will be read or seriously considered, I had to write in to the BoV (the alumni association is planning to compile all the comments submitted and present them to the board on the 22nd). Here's what I wrote:

Having walked the lawn a mere 4 weeks ago, I am heartsickened by all that has transpired in Charlottesville only a month after I proudly became an alumni. My only consolation is that this happened after I left; I would hate to have to continue my studies in the wake of all this turmoil. I say that I am heartsickened because until now I was not aware just how corrupt the inner workings of my beloved school were. Call me an idealist, but I simply assumed that an institution that prided itself on adhering to the visions and traditions established by Thomas Jefferson would run itself more like a school instead of a corporation or political machine. It disgusts me to think that my school has fallen prey to political influences and interests that seem to touch and ruin all other spheres of society. And while I urge faculty members to hang on and stick with this school (they are the only ones who can save it now), I can't say I blame them for wanting to quit. Who would want to work within a community that seems only to value the input of those with an MBA? All I can say is that I am incredibly sad and disappointed in the conduct of the BoV, who seems to treat my university like a corporation instead of the great academic institution that I know it is. 

It's super melodramatic but honestly it sums up how I feel. I'm sad and disappointed and mad and confused. Not to mention the vandalism of the Rotunda. I get that someone's mad but ruining a world heritage site is not the way to make your point. Either way, rough times are sure ahead for dear ol' UVa, and it will be interesting to see how (if at all) admissions rates and rankings are effected.

Via Washington Post. Over 2000 people showed up in support of Sullivan. Wow!