The Christmas day 2004 passing of Professor Edward J. Cronin
of the Program of Liberal Studies ("A Death in the Family,"
Spring 2005) was noted with fond memories. What a wonderful teacher!
My first paper for him was returned with the sole comment, writ
large across the page, "Bus Ticket Prose." Upon inquiry,
I was advised to read the back of the bus ticket the next time
I took a bus downtown; legalistic, formal, stilted, without life!
Professor Cronin and his wife, Serena, hosted many a Friday evening
gathering at their home. Three to six of us would sit among his
many children, discussing whatever came up -- racial integration,
baseball (his passion), Ulysses, ND football and the
challenges of life ahead of us. Pizza was served, and beer when
we were of age, and we laughed, listened and learned.
I thought of him often in succeeding years. I wrote him some
years ago thanking him for what he taught me. I received a typically
wry reply and appreciation for remembering.
He was a gift to his students, and I hope ND always has room for
men and women like him on the faculty; passionate about teaching
and not very motivated by academic careerism. Too often, research
and publishing become an excuse for not engaging the undergraduates
as did Dr. Cronin.
(April 2005)
