To the Editor:
We have read that our dean, Dean Edward Fox, has been credited with the hiring of two African American male professors. Since we are the two professors whom he hired, please allow us to explain the circumstances surrounding our desire to come to Dartmouth and our understanding of the word credit as it applies to us.
In Professor Joseph Cooper's case, Dean Fox deserves much credit for the appointment of J. Bradford Haley, the late corporate development officer at Tuck and the highest ranking black administrator at Tuck. In addition to his normal responsibilities, Haley assumed the task of keeping his eyes open for minority faculty and students who might contribute to the Tuck community. Haley was a vocal behind the scenes advocate of affirmative action and it is doubtful that either of us would be present at Tuck without his active persistence.
Professor Kenneth Baker, a senior professor in Operations, and then associate dean, also made a compelling case to Cooper, on behalf of Dartmouth.
In Professor Martin Davidson's case, Professor Len Greenhaulgh's frequent contacts at professional meetings demonstrated sustained interest on behalf of the School in Davidson's work.
Sometimes the word "credit," particularly in the context of affirmative action, implies a corresponding "debit" -- i.e., a lowering of standards that is balanced by the desire to "do the right thing." Our qualifications, Harvard and Stanford Ph.D.s, respectively, suggest that no credit should be awarded for the hiring decision itself. The School's offer and our acceptance represent an investment, similar to investments made in other highly recruited junior faculty.
Dean Fox deserves substantial credit for attempting to create an environment supportive of affirmative action. We hope that the incoming dean will continue his work in admissions, financial aid policy and faculty recruiting. Dean Fox's decision to hire us, on behalf of the school, is properly viewed as enlightened self interest.
JOSEPH E. COOPER
MARTIN DAVIDSON
Assistant Professors
Tuck School of Business
