Open Letter from Dr. Robert Davila

Editor: Dr. Robert Davila weighs in with his thoughts on the situation at Gallaudet.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Dr. Brueggermann:

I am an alumnus of Gallaudet University. I am also a former tenured professor and senior officer with 17 years of service. I have been following the tragic events that have evolved over the selection of Dr. Jane Fernandes as President-de signate. Not even DPN consumed so much of the national and world Deaf communities' time and attention as this present crisis has. Although we can partially thank developments in communication technologies since DPN for expanding the breadth of participation in this current issue, in the larger sense, the increase derives from the lessons learned from DPN which empowered Deaf people for all time. This empowerment is now classically on display on Florida Avenue and throughout every community where Deaf people make their homes. It cannot be ignored any more than it can be denied. The message is clear: Dr. Fernandes is not the leader the University needs.

Dr. Brueggermann, the solution to this monumental tragedy is in your hands and in your authority as Chair of the Board of Trustees. At this juncture, only you can resolve the impasse that has paralyzed the University and disenfranchised the student body and the faculty on campus. The President and his administration have proclaimed that they cannot or will not satisfy the community's demands. We now believe that only the Board of Trustees can bridge the divisive chasm. We urge you to act - and to act immediately..
At this moment, the question is no longer whose arguments have greater merit; it is too late to debate who is right or wrong. The issue, and our collective responsibility, is saving our University.

Dr. Fernandes proclaims that she loves Gallaudet. No one doubts her. We, therefore, appeal to the love she proclaims and ask that she resign to save Gallaudet. There is no other option.

In advance, I thank you for exercising both the authority of your office and your good judgment to do what is right for our beloved University. Please kindly share this letter with your colleagues on the Board of Trustees. I would also appreciate hearing back from you within five days.

Thank you very much.