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Climate of fear
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Posted on Feb 25 2009
It is with sadness that I read of the continuing problems at NMC. As a former member of the Faculty Senate and an instructor at both the Tinian and Saipan campuses, I can attest to the veracity of both Sen. Maria Pangelinan and Rep. Heinz Hofeschneider when they raise the issue of NMC’s possible (probable) loss of accreditation due to poor management by President Fernandez. I saw a pervasive climate of fear spread through the faculty as President Fernandez used her power in retaliation against any who dared disagree with her. Yes, faculty and staff were afraid of losing their jobs. As Faculty Senate Rep. I heard many such complaints, but always with the caveat of anonymity. Fear was pervasive, and had a stifling effect on educational innovation, creativity and overall excellence. I made the wrenching decision to leave last August, as I could no longer stand to watch the College I had come to love being destroyed by President Fernandez. I gave up a year of “double dipping” and financial security because I was sick at heart. I miss my CJ students terribly and feel guilty about leaving them, but I really could not stay and work under that president. Please, Frica and Heinz and others who love NMC, get rid of this woman before it is too late and NMC loses WASC accreditation. The students and the CNMI deserve better.
[B]Lynda Rowe [/B] [I]Portland, Oregon[/I]
