Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore: Comments

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Mon, 04 May 2009 18:25:30 -0500

I wholeheartedly agree with A.Balmuth. All those alumni who have donated money to implement her vision are owed, at least, candor.

- Ricardo L Rodriguez MD

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:40:47 -0500

Rebecca
Been a great, great ride - we will miss you.
Thank you for all your efforts in behalf of Colgate.
Gary and Ann Chandler '54

- Gary Chandler

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:31:52 -0500

I was deeply saddened Saturday by the announcement of Rebecca's departure. I've been a great fan of Rebecca, of her achievements with Colgate and of her personal light. I've also had the gift of her correspondences. I'd write, and generally sooner rather than later, I'd have mail.

I met Rebecca in Dana at Reunion '03, as she, Tybo, Jack and Adam addressed alums. Sometime later I sent her a supportive email. Rebecca wrote that my note had brought tears. Since that time, I'd always addressed Rebecca "My dear open-hearted Madame President".

My dear open-hearted Madame President,
I have been so honored and pleased to receive your kind writings over the course of your presidency, thank you. I wish you and your family great confirmation and bliss in following your path.

I was quite sad, was moving on, and your note helped. No doubt you'll face real tears from others, I wish you acknowledgement, joy, love and compassion through the parting process.

Pat and Lyle are in my thoughts and prayers. I've always especially honored '73 Howie's acceptance of the great challenge on our behalf, and his perseverence to blessing and break through in finding you.

Colgate always out-punched its weight. You helped make us local, national and international contenders and champions. Thank you for your spirit, wisdom, grace and winning ways. Thank your for your passion for the climb. Thank you for helping make Colgate great. God speed.

Best and cheers,
Sean
'73

- Sean Hallahan '73

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:21:51 -0500

Change is the only constant. The direction that change takes is always a struggle. Rebecca Chopp has guided Colgate through a very difficult transition with strong conviction, high-minded purpose and great love. She leaves our valley a better place than she found it, in no small part because she was willing and able to confront hard issues and take the higher road. Thank you, Rebecca.

- Cris Edward Johnson

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:08:18 -0500

Thank you both for everything, but mostly, I thank you for bringing ROTC back to our campus. Colgate will again stand proudly side by side with all of those who have and will pay the ultimate price for our freedom. That not only makes us a more diverse campus but a stronger nation as well!
Colgate Leads!

SSG John Robinson NYARNG Inf. Ret.

- John Robinson

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 14:00:07 -0500

I think Ms. Chopp owes the Colgate community an explanation and not merely platitudes; at best she is, somewhat prematurely, leaving a vital institution on the cusp of growing distinction for an established and happily satisfied school, with little more promise than that of sustaining an accepted position as a quality small quaker school. Where's the challenge and for what reasons?

Or is there something we don't know? Has the implacable opposition of a few dissident Colgate alums --more raucous and backward looking than rational-- driven our administrators to seek quieter--easier- venues?

- A.Balmuth

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:35:04 -0500

Dr.Chopp,

Very sorry to see you leave Colgate. You have done a wonderful job. Thank you for your help in producing the videotape for the softball team.

Bill Straub, Ph.D.
Sport Psychologist

- William F. Straub

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 23:00:37 -0500

Rebecca will be sorely missed and at the same time what a great statement about our alma mater that Swat would want to steal OUR quarterback. I think they realize we're coming for them. It's on!

- Karl Stewart

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:52:18 -0500

This is very unfortunate news for Colgate, but Chopp has left the University in prime position to tackle whatever comes ahead. It is difficult not to take her resignation personally and ask, Why?...but I suspect there are only so many CNY winters any one of us can take ;-) We should be eternally grateful for her countless contributions to Colgate. Thank you for your faith and service to our institution. You will be missed...Godspeed.

- 'Gate93

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:36:46 -0500

Dear Rebecca and Fred,
You will be missed. Thank you both for all you have done for this community. We wish you much success and happiness in your new missions.
God be with you.

- Lorna Wilson

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:55:03 -0500

President Chopp was a very good match for Colgate and did the job superbly. Seven years is a good stay. Moving to new challenges is good for a leader and seeking a refreshed vision is good for a great institution. Well done all around!

- Brian Savin

Comment on "Colgate's Chopp to become president of Swarthmore"

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 13:19:25 -0500

I heard about this move from my daughter Rebecca, Swarthmore 04. Seems Swat alumni heard about this via email earlier than it was posted to the Colgate site.

Colgate's loss is Swarthmore's gain.

- Caleb Rogers (74)