DEAN’S MESSAGE

D E A N ’ S M E S S A G E

of the variables of a problem have been identified and satisfied. It implies a familiarity that simply cannot be achieved in the realm of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. That which is certain is already accomplished. Cato’s observation inspired the founding fathers of our nation to act. The decision to act is not only inspired by ultimatums. It can also be stimulated by the desire to assert leadership, to find freedom in new circumstances, to be afforded the ability to think creatively by shedding past assumptions. The decision to act by thoughtful individuals is the assertion of leadership necessary to maintain the vitality of a domain of knowledge. The time of change that envelops contemporary society is a moment of opportunity for design practitioners to assert the power of the design disciplines. It is a moment when the critical thought processes embedded in the design domain of knowledge is an important tool for the action that must be undertaken. It is an assertion of leadership that is a vital aspect of the future of our society. Cato’s second declarative statement, “we can deserve it” is as worthy of reflection as the first. To deserve success is very different from an entitlement to success. This statement implies a This time of rapid change demands more from each individual with every transformative occur rence. It is a time when the essence of our culture is questioned. It is a time when the boundaries of human understanding are being pushed to new horizons. It is a time of shocking perspectives on a future that holds within it interconnectedness to the farthest regions of the planet even as we expe rience the contradictions of advanced technologies and the rigid adherence to centuries old ways of doing and seeing. How can the changes under way inspire change? Is there a way to determine paths more likely to succeed in such a climate? These questions, as likely to be pertinent in a corporation as in a university, amplify our dilemma. Where will inspiration be found? Is it possible to assemble the necessary information to ensure the certainty of success, continuing along paths more comfortable and derived from consensus-building relationships, before undertaking action? Cato’s observation provides the answer to the questions and directs the energy of resolution to an action posture. It is not possible to guarantee success in a rapidly transforming context. Nor is it possible to wait for certainty of action ensuring success. The certainty of success implies that all We cannot guarantee success in the outcome. We can deserve it. –Cato by Marvin J. Malecha, FAIA, Dean

meritocracy that recognizes the impossibility of achieving success at every turn while acknowl edging the importance of perseverance in the actions that are undertaken. How can success be deserved? It is important to be bold in response to the times. Leadership is defined by greater visions, expansive ideas, and challenging thoughts. It is critical that determination and commitment accompany ideas. Nothing is achieved without a substantial commitment of time and energy. In the case of innovation and entrepreneurship it will be necessary to expend energy without the certainty of compensation or even seed funding. Old-fashioned sweat equity is the fuel of the most progressive ideas and actions. It cannot be expected that funds will always be found to make the dif ficult transition from the way it has been to what must be. A way must be identified to nurture, protect, and support champions.

In a creative community it is the talent of individuals that is the most valuable currency. It is in this realization that the spirit of a college community can be found. This allows an inclusive definition of the college community bringing together faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Through this realization we can celebrate the accomplishments in an additive fashion replacing traditional competition with a greater sense of collaboration. For such a realization to take hold in a community it is necessary for an intense interest in the work and contributions of others. It is necessary that each member of the community become the steward of the success of every other member of the community. Champions are the free spirits among the group. These individuals will lead by their work. They will serve to produce the prototypes that will make the way for the larger community to follow. Their accomplishments and mastery of their subject will attract others enhancing both per networks and apprentice relationships. It is around the work of such individuals that new directions and innovative scholarship can be formed. What is it that such personalities will teach others in the evolution of new ways and means of work?

Embrace entrepreneurial thought to inspire new ways and means.

Employ design thought to foster mastery on subjects of value to society.

Learn from error.

Flourish with new technologies.

Build a social network of work.

Communicate ideas with passion.

Allow for ambiguity.

Pursue continual renewal.

Always celebrate success!

The oral tradition upon which a culture is built must guide how the work of individual champions can be best used to assert the leadership of the design professions. Their stories must be told and case studies composed that will serve as the model for others. It is the stories spread across a culture that stimulate and inspire change. It is the work of heroes and champions that leads the way. It is the responsibility of the design professions to tell the stories.

It is said among the Ekoi of Nigeria that Mouse brought all the stories into the world. Mouse may seem an insignificant creature, but she goes all places and sees all things. Long ago she wove story children from all she saw, and dressed them in gowns of red, white, blue, and black. They lived with her and probably would have forever, but Leopard, Sheep, and a Ninm woman had a quarrel and Sheep, while running away, crashed into the door of Mouse’s house and broke it down. All of the stories and histories inside ran out, and instead of returning home to Mouse, they decided to travel up and down the world, which they do to this day.

Stories, those works of the imagination, deal with everything in heaven and earth. They are part of life, just as hunting, planting, marrying, and raising a family are.

Jefferson and Skinner, Roots of Time

We must tell the stories of those among us who excel. We must learn from and be inspired by those who venture before us. It is our responsibility to run ahead of our time, to foster a life greater than that given to us. Even in failure it is possible to declare success in the learning experience. We must know the stories!

We deserve to succeed when we have empowered those individuals who bring their abilities and insights to the well-being of our society. We deserve to succeed when we provide leadership that enhances the lives of those who have little ability to help themselves. We deserve to succeed when we measure our success not by personal or even college accolades but by the way we have caused others to flourish. Let this be the measure of our influence as a College of Design, as creative individuals leading the development of a design domain of knowledge, as responsible citizens and in the words of American Indian traditions, as spiritual beings on a human journey.