No doubt he is smart but I think he is one of those that is book smart but doesnt know how to get out of the rain. Lots of brain power but extremely lacking in common sense and good judgment. I dont understand that at his age he would leave and go halfway across the country. The Board must not have been as pleased with him as they want us to believe. UNC is certainly better off without him in any capacity.

Good riddance

Sad he is a quitter. No doubt an honorable man but he is showing less character to "return to his love of teaching" and walking away.

Folks will want to classify what has occurred at UNC as either an athletic scandal or a purely academic one, depending on their own agendas. Despite the hand wringing and public posturing, university leaders understand all too well the outside pressures that demand that they accept some conditions that are inconsistent with their mission and their standards.

UNC was not vigilant is spotting and correcting abuses in its African Studies Department, which were brought to light because of its connection to athletics. Why would it have been, if that Department's existence is not significant with respect to UNC's academic mission?

Sadly, universities - especially public ones - need to have ways to provide a path to a degree for students who aren't prepared for a rigorous academic curriculum. That includes star athletes, dim-witted children of alumni and donors, underrepresented minorities, etc.

That's why prestigious schools like Washington don't view Thorp's tenure as scandalous.

""tran - "This is what is known as a golden parachute."

No it is not."

It's just called getting a new job."

I disagree. They could have thrown him under the bus as many have clamored for. Instead, he was allowed ample time to conduct a proper search for a position commensurate with his experience and ability while drawing his full salary.

This is probably just a simple case of, "I better get out while the getting is good." Maybe there were others doing things behind his back....and maybe they weren't. But the buck stopped at his table.

Why is it mediocrity or even sub-par performance is awarded in academia and politics in this country with more money and power? Where does the apologia come from?

If he is so highly respected and all those problems on his watch--they must have pretty low standards.

Should have left a long long time ago and been fired. He is so weak he cant even manage the univerity travel. Someone should always sign off on a persons travel. He gave them a blank check and didnt blink an eye. I wouldnt trust him with last weeks newspaper.

caniac315, I think ya got it about right. when you said..I think he's a good man, who did his best, which obviously wasn't very good...

Only in Big Education can a person not be very good and get paid 420,000.00 a year.

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