affirm wrote: ↑Thu Dec 09, 2021 8:46 pm
Furman should have as minimal as possible graduate degree programs.
No athletics programs at Furman should influence adding or increasing any existing graduate degree programs at Furman.
Oh, it must have escaped many of us that those opposing anything like this all worked their first jobs at the University of Chicago back in the 30s before coming to Furman to teach economics, etc., and pontificate on the virtues of D3 athletics and evils of D1, all while blowing 120+ candles. Paranoia is always under the pillow, afraid that Furman is going to sell its soul to athletics interests that will turn around and screw everything and everybody else. Ridiculous.
Two completely different animals (undergrad - grad), but some similarities. Recognizing a change in the landscape (sound familiar?), Furman created the "Furman Advantage" for very obvious reasons, to add value and attractiveness to the Furman experience and degree in a very competitive liberal arts environment. Great move by FU.
Why can't that recognition of a changing landscape and need for forward thinking be applied to other areas where competition exists?
A small, quality graduate program created by Furman and wholly administered by Furman could have many positive benefits over and above one or two student-athlete grad transfers. The fear mongering of it becoming a den of abuse and exploitation is totally unfounded.