Common cause

There is often division (or animosity, call it what you will) between Professional and Academic staff. There shouldn't be. (At Universities I prefer the title 'Professional,' rather than 'General.')

I've heard every kind of story about condescending, arrogant and obstructionist behaviour—and no group enjoys a monopoly. And when budgets (or timelines) are tight, existing problems are exacerbated. Arguments about who are the most needed or the most important in the organisation are worse than useless.

Everyone who fronts a job at your university is a colleague. And to some extent, the benefits of your work depend on how others do theirs.

Professionalism, dignity at work, a safe and harassment-free workplace are all matters that must be blind to job classifications. The truth is simple, Professional and Academic staff have common cause.

But I raise all this not to ruminate about either the work or old complaints, but to warn against those who would divide staff. I believe that anyone (or any organisation) who tries to place (or take advantage of) a wedge between Professional and Academic staff is no friend to either, and no friend to the University.

Esprit de corps is great—if you're aware what the corps is. ▪

Beauty isn't worth thinking about;
what's important is your mind.
You don't want a fifty-dollar haircut on a fifty-cent head.
—Garrison Keillor (b. 1942)