Newly Tenured
In January, seven Williams faculty members were promoted to associate professor with tenure, effective July 1. Williams Magazine asked what they enjoy most about their role as educators. Learn more about their teaching and research at
bit.ly/wmstenure2020.
“I have seen my students succeed in the face of adversity, mathematical or otherwise, and they taught me the value of a community and the importance of belonging. Working with them has been the greatest joy in my professional career.” —Pamela E. Harris, mathematics
“Integral to teaching at Williams is the formation of close partnerships with students. These start slowly, but suddenly you realize the students are contributing ideas that none of you could have arrived at alone. Witnessing that moment, the transition from student into fully formed colleague, is the very best part of the job.” —Charlie Doret ’02, physics
“Faculty and students at Williams don’t exist in a strictly hierarchical relationship. They can be colleagues—even collaborators—on progressive, groundbreaking research and scholarship in ways that not only contribute to furthering cutting-edge fields of study but also in a manner both mutually enriching and fulfilling.” —Michelle Apotsos, art
“I had a student fail an exam, and I told him, ‘I believe in fairness, but I also believe in grace; I’ll help you get where you need to be.’ He not only got there, but years later he shared that story as he was about to be baptized.” —Greg Phelan, economics
“Williams students are willing to challenge me—they don’t take my explanations on faith. Not only has this made me a better teacher, it’s also led to memorable and spirited class discussions.” —Leo Goldmakher, mathematics
“I love being surrounded by colleagues and students who are so committed to learning, so curious about the world around them and so generous about sharing their perspectives and experiences.” —Susan Godlonton, economics
“It is such a joy helping students expand their musical horizons and witnessing their relationships to music evolve. Their expressive and intellectual risks are a source of perpetual inspiration.” —Corinna Campbell, music