WPI is continuously seeking to be distinct in the curriculum and the programs on campus. This is exemplified by "The Plan" and other cooperative educational programs. WPI is constantly striving forward by reviewing and analyzing the success of such programs. Thus making changes to make these programs more effective. At one time we were all intrigued by WPI because it is different from other schools. However, in this past week WPI has lost part of its individuality.
As students and members of the WPI community we were distraught to find that Professor Walcerz was not awarded tenure. Professor Walcerz is an excellent professor who represents the ideology of "The WPI Plan." Professor Walcerz constructed his classes around the idea of projects and group work. He challenged students in class, but he also made himself available in case a student needed help. Professor Walcerz let his classes and teaching be student oriented.
We feel that not giving Professor Walcerz tenure WPI has lost a key element to the reason why students came to WPI. Students come here because the classes here are project oriented, and the professor are accessible. We feel that the tenure actions in this past week are detrimental to WPI now and in the future.
Signed by 39 Concerned Students