Dear colleagues,
(I apologize for the quick timeline and the fact that many are
traveling, but I would appreciate responses on this, both positive and
negative, sent to Leticia and me by Monday if at all possible in case
we decide to move forward.)
A number of you have expressed to me concerns about diversity in job
searches in mathematics. A commitment to hiring candidates who will
help us serve members of underrepresented groups is a top priority of
the College as well. When Leticia and I met with Associate Dean
Belmonte for her approval of our slate of candidates, we also
discussed diversity issues with her and noted that we had identified
some very strong candidates outside of our areas of urgent need,
numerical analysis/computational PDE and analysis. We noted that we
wished we had a third line open given the strength of the candidates.
Associate Dean Belmonte suggested that we make a case for a third
position on loan against a future retirement, and I wrote on Wednesday
to make such a case. Leticia and I had looked carefully at all
candidates suggested by the faculty, and we decided to present the two
candidates we thought were extremely strong mathematically, were
outstanding teachers, and in addition had demonstrated a commitment to
diversity: Eloísa Grifo (commutative algebra) and Carmen Rovi
(topology).
The Dean's office was very enthusiastic about these candidates and
today offered us an additional position as a loan to try to hire one
of these two. I am asking for your feedback on this possibility.
I am strongly inclined to accept this offer for reasons beyond
diversity considerations; namely, I think it is best to grab a
position when we can and not gamble on getting permission to fill it
later. We will have a new Dean next year, and we have no idea what her
or his priorities will be. Additionally, the state budget situation
has continued to deteriorate significantly, and gas and oil prices are
very low right now, which will have an effect in the coming years.
Please let Leticia and me know how you feel about this as soon as
possible. Happy holidays and best wishes for a restful break.
Best,
Chris
--
Chris Francisco
Professor and Head
Department of Mathematics
Oklahoma State University
Office: 401 MSCS
Phone: (405) 744-8225
E-mail: chris.francisco(a)okstate.edu
