To the Editor

Jim Shuman has retired as professor at St. Lawrence University and he earned public recognition for what he has contributed to the university, the community, and the many students who have been privileged to benefit from the role model he has provided for us all.

Dr. Shuman is one of the leading experts in the field of education.

As a person, he combines strong leadership with kindness, empathy, and compassion. If you can locate anyone who does not admire, respect and speak fondly of Dr. Shuman you have either found someone who doesn’t know him or someone who is a rare exception.

Dr. Shuman served 25 years as chair of the education department and he helped establish a reputation for St. Lawrence University as an outstanding institution for preparing future teachers for the classroom. Since the 1990s I have heard school administrators in this area say that they can tell an SLU graduate at an interview by their knowledge and understanding of what it takes to be a professional educator.

Dr. Shuman has developed partnerships for SLU with local schools and community organizations, has helped coordinate the annual school/business symposium, and has always had his door open to students whether their need has been advice on which courses to take or about problems in their personal lives. His written tributes from former students attest to the esteem in which he is held.

It is not stating it too strongly to say that Dr. Shuman is loved by the full-time professors and adjunct instructors who have served under his leadership these past 25 years. He has earned the gratitude of everyone connected with St. Lawrence University and the Canton and St. Lawrence County communities. Dr. Shuman, we all wish the best in your retirement and will welcome any degree of involvement you may choose to continue with our educational pursuits. If you were an athlete, we would be retiring your number. You have been a star in your profession.

Don Mesibov, Director, Institute for Learning Centered Education