Faculty discuss long-range report

Faculty recruitment and quality in light of long-range planning was the topic that dominated discussion at Tuesday's College Faculty meeting. Concerns that the college has not done enough to attract quality faculty were voiced.

The discussion stemmed from a report by Steven Volk, professor of History and chair of the long-range planning team looking into faculty issues. He said the planning team expects more faculty diversity in the future. The Faculty also heard reports from Dean of the college of Arts and Sciences Clayton Koppes on student enrollment and curriculum development.

Professor of Economics Robert Piron remarked that the college "has not done well competing in the academic labor market."

Professor of Biology Richard Levin said, "In the sciences, Oberlin has an advantage" and suggested that this might migrate to other departments. He said, "Our good reputation in the sciences does not depend on faculty but upon graduates going on to get PhDs."

Levin said that a study conducted by former President S. Frederick Starr dealing with science education found that interest in science was languishing at major institutions more than at smaller schools. According to Levin, the study concluded that the mentors available to students at liberal arts colleges were more important to many students than the sophisticated facilities .

Professor of History Marcia Colish said that having a distinguished faculty attracts new faculty. However she also said that the effect on student needs to be considered as well. "High school students don't know who the world shakers are and they're not attracted by faculty. Research with students is important at Oberlin and current faculty will mentor new faculty."

Ronald Kahn, professor of Politics, said it would be helpful if Oberlin advertised the fact that it would nurture new in-coming or prospective PhDs throughout their career.

Professor of Chemistry Norman Craig suggested that individual college faculty members do more recruiting such as the Conservatory does.

The faculty's role in school administration was also discussed. Professor of Philosophy Norman Care questioned Oberlin's commitment to faculty governance of the College. He said, "If Oberlin College is truly interested in faculty governance, then let's recruit prospects who are also."

Professor of Politics Benjamin Schiff had another suggestion for faculty recruitment. He broke up the meeting by saying, "In honor of Al McQueen [Emeritus Professor of Sociology], we should return to the notion of a faculty club."

The meeting also included a report from Koppes on new faculty for this semester and faculty proposals for curriculum development. He said that 18 proposals for fellowships have been received and requested s Scholar in Residence be brought in to do curriculum development.