I feel compelled to respond to the message Bruce Nauman sent to the Rensselaer community on Wednesday. I do not want to re-hash all of the concerns that led to the Institute’s decision to issue a reprimand to Professor Nauman in 2005. Many of you are familiar with those circumstances, but continued discussion is not productive. At the same time, however, the National Labor Relations Board did dismiss Professor Nauman’s unfair labor practice charge challenging the propriety of the reprimand. In addition, Professor Nauman continues to pursue other litigation against the Institute.

For the record, the Faculty Handbook clearly states that the Institute’s procedures preclude filing an internal grievance on the same basis as an external legal action. This safeguard, which mandates an election of remedies, was confirmed in the latest revision of the Faculty Handbook by a committee led by Dr. Nauman.

Most importantly, I reject Professor Nauman’s allegation that we live in tyranny at Rensselaer. During my time at Rensselaer, I have found that when problems are approached rationally and patiently, within the parameters of the Institute’s protocols and guidelines, we are typically able to find solutions. When we engage in or encourage adversarial behavior or fall to acrimony, we risk compromising the effectiveness of the very processes on which we rely to achieve resolutions.

Colleagues, let us be honest, we do not live in tyranny! We are fortunate to be employed by an excellent university, aligned with exceptional leadership, colleagues and students. Ours is a competitive struggle for achievement, but we are succeeding. I urge us all to maintain an open mind and think for ourselves, guarding against the persuasive powers of those who seek to distract us.