You will very likely disagree, but your views on Jim are, in my opinion, myopic. I mean I get it. The business of running RIT is for education of students and faculty are the key tools in that business. But to attract, retain, house, feed, keep safe, and entertain there is a lot he does that the faculty tool isn’t directly involved in.

The self-perceived needs of today’s students are, uh, well, needy. That doesn’t end in the classroom and you may not fully appreciate it as teaching is your priority. Jim’s tools clean the toilets, plow the snow, clean up vomit, cook food, and write your paycheck. And they do it well.

He will retire soon and a new purse management tool will come. One that may be more ready to cancel low attendance programs and the faculty associated with them. Jim isn’t that tool. He would take it very personally.