Editor,

I am writing to express my utter disappointment in your article and illustration in the previous (October 2) issue of the Skyline View where, what can only be described as a gross and offensive mischaracterization of our president was allowed publication.

Despite the notion that the illustration had “nothing to do with the editorial”, clearly as it was physically positioned as connected to the article, I would ask that the view editorial staff avoid the game of expecting us to not believe what we see. An ill-conceived, backwards and disconnected editorial on concepts as layered as racism and bigotry is, at times, to be expected, especially when the writer has no apparent expertise in the subject (it is after all, an opinion piece). However, there is no excusing an attempt to defame and mischaracterize our college president. Nor is there an excuse for attempting to undermine an event as significant as Dr. Cornell West visiting with Skyline College. Anyone who knows and who has had the privilege of working with Dr. Stanback-Stroud understands her commitment to education as well as to social justice.

Dr. Stanback-Stroud has been a tireless advocate for Skyline College as Vice President of Instruction and as President. Our students have truly benefitted from her tireless efforts at advancing student equity and making sure that Skyline College remains a beacon of opportunity within the community college system. She always finds a way to deliver for our students and I believe an immediate apology is in order. I absolutely respect freedom of speech (even if it is not well-thought-out speech and not couched in reality or fact), however, this in my opinion crosses the line.

Thank you,
Dr. Jackson
Department of Psychology
Skyline College