You have reached the Office of the President, Saint Xavier University.

I very much regret having to resort to an automated response, but I must do so for two reasons.  First, messages of concern from military men and women around the world now far exceed my ability to respond to them individually.  I have sent hundreds of personal replies during the past 5 days but, unfortunately, I no longer have the ability to keep up. Second, I will be away from the university for several days on important university business.  I will keep on top of this matter, but will have limited time in front of a computer.

PLEASE KNOW THAT I WILL READ AND GIVE CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO EVERY MESSAGE THAT COMES TO ME.  I TAKE THE MATTER CONCERNING PROF. KIRSTEIN VERY SERIOUSLY AND I AM CONSCIENTIOUSLY WEIGHING ALL OPTIONS AND ADVICE

Here is a brief summary of what I have heard so far, and my responses.

COMMENTS MADE TO THE UNIVERSITY

-  "Prof. Peter Kirstein's initial email to a cadet at the Air Force Academy was tasteless, unprovoked, rude, unprofessional, and indefensible."  I agree completely.

-  "Prof. Kirstein's apologies seem less than genuine to some who have read his remarks."  It always is difficult to look into a man's soul, but I believe Dr. Kirstein's apologies to be genuine. However, apologies are insufficient by themselves.  Fortunately, the cadet has graciously accepted Prof. Kirstein's apology, as have others at the Academy, and conversation now is proceeding in a courteous, professional manner.

-  "The forthcoming Academic Assembly at the Academy is an event worth supporting.  It's a shame that Saint Xavier's response was so negative."  Prof. Kirstein did not speak for the University in his first response. Saint Xavier University intends to identify and support one or more students who will attend the Assembly.

-  "Prof. Kirstein has spoiled the reputation of the University, particularly if his views or the manner in which he expressed them are reflective of the University's attitude."  Prof. Kirstein's views are solely his own and do not reflect the University in substance or tone.  Saint Xavier University stands for reasoned discourse and educational practices based on "respect, caring, and justice."  Prof. Kirstein's email to the cadet reflected none of these attributes.  Crude language is not and will not be tolerated.

-  "Prof. Kirstein should be summarily fired."  As president, I am exploring all options for ensuring that such behavior never again occurs.  While I understand why many request his immediate dismissal, I have to weigh very carefully matters of due process, academic protocol, legal precedent, and the greater good.  I assure you that I will do what is right in this matter.  I also will follow the University's policy of not discussing personnel matters with third parties.  

"Academic freedom is not a legitimate defense for the kind of language used by Prof. Kirstein."  I agree.  Academic freedom is about the right to search for truth, the right to hold views at odds with the majority, and the right to teach unencumbered by rigid orthodoxies.  It does not justify hate speech, vile language, etc.  Professors here and elsewhere are expected to be respectful at all times, to engage in genuine, reasoned discourse about controversial matters, and to distinguish personal views from institutional positions when necessary for the sake of clarity. Thus, Prof. Kirstein is free to hold views critical of the military if he wishes to do so, but he is not free to issue demeaning, degrading statements AS A PROFESSOR in or outside of the classroom.  In other respects, he enjoys the same freedoms of speech extended to all citizens.

I deeply regret the hurt that has affected so many.  As both president and former USAF, I offer my most sincere apologies to all in the military and beyond whose sacrifices and intentions have been denigrated by Prof. Kirstein's words.  I ask for your understanding as we attempt to rectify this unexpected situation.  Please know that the University is taking this matter very seriously and will do its best to bring the matter to a proper close.  You have been heard!  My goal is to seek a just solution, a practical response, and a lasting form of resolution that will uphold the integrity of both the university and the military.

To those who are current or former members of the military, I offer my heart-felt gratitude for your service to the nation and I extend my personal best wishes on the occasion of Veterans Day.

Sincerely and respectfully yours,


Dr. Richard Yanikoski, President Saint Xavier University

St Xavier President's partial statement:

Academic freedom is about the right to search for truth, the right to hold views at odds with the majority, and the right to teach unencumbered by rigid orthodoxies. It does not justify hate speech, vile language, etc. Professors here and elsewhere are expected to be respectful at all times, to engage in genuine, reasoned discourse about controversial matters, and to distinguish personal views from institutional positions when necessary for the sake of clarity. Thus, Prof. Kirstein is free to hold views critical of the military if he wishes to do so, but he is not free to issue demeaning, degrading statements AS A PROFESSOR in or outside of the classroom. In other respects, he enjoys the same freedoms of speech extended to all citizens.

Professor Kirstein's original comment:

You are a disgrace to this country and I am furious you would even think I would support you and your aggressive baby killing tactics of collateral damage. Help you recruit. Who, top guns to reign death and destruction upon nonwhite peoples throughout the world? Are you serious sir? Resign your commission and serve your country with honour.

No war, no air force cowards who bomb countries without AAA, without possibility of retaliation. You are worse than the snipers. You are imperialists who are turning the whole damn world against us. September 11 can be blamed in part for what you and your cohorts have done to the Palestinians, the VC, the Serbs, a retreating army at Basra.

You are unworthy of my support.

Peter Kristein
Professor of History
Saint Xavier University

Air Force Cadet's original request:

Dear Sir or Ma'am,

The Air Force Academy is going to be having our annual Academy Assembly. This is a forum for mainly but not only Political Science majors, discussing very important issues dealing with politics. Right now we are in the planning stage for advertising and we would appreciate your help in the follow areas. Do you know of or have any methods or ways for interschool advertising and or communications? What would be the best way for us to advertise at your school whether it is sending you the fliers and you making copies or by perhaps putting an advertisement in your local publication? We would appreciate your input and the cost of what you recommend. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Very Respectfully
Cadet xxxxxxxxxxx