Professors You Love

Editor's Note

Who can believe it has been 10 years since David Hillgrove ('79) sent me an article he wrote about an inspiring psychology professor and JMU personality with the arresting lede: "I am personally responsible for Eileen Nelson's retirement, and I feel terrible."

Writers and editors will understand the joy I felt at reading such a wonderful sentence. I knew we had one of the best magazine stories in hand — ever. I had no idea that this submission, which sparked a contest for more contributions among our readers, would become the most popular, longest-running and award-winning column in Madison. That's because it hits the core value of the Madison Experience — the meaningful exchange between professor and student that is legend here at JMU.

Two on the magazine staff especially, Michelle Hite ('88) and Elaine Stroupe, have delighted in honoring those special relationships with editing assistance and by helping our contributors express themselves.

Since those early days, Professors You Love also became a catalyst for transforming Madison into the kind of magazine it is today — a venue for members of the Madison community to talk to one another about their college days and their present lives.

Today you'll notice that much of Madison — whether the personal experiences or scholarly insights — comprises stories written or photos taken by alumni, professors, students and donors. These individuals have been motivated by their Madison Experience enough to take the time to compose their thoughts and sentiments and share them with the rest of the Madison community.

Today social media has given this kind of sharing and self-expression a broader reach and more immediacy. At JMU, you can participate by visiting the JMU home page (www.jmu.edu), Facebook, flickr and more. In addition, Professors You Love now has its own Web page, where you can find all the past columns and read the newest submissions without having to wait for the next issue of Madison. Don't see your favorite professor? Send us your story. (We can help you with editing or writing.) See Page 32.

And don't miss the new Students Who Rock column beginning with the fall issue. To all of our columnists and contributors and the professors who inspire it all: Thank you; you keep Madison alive and thriving.

—Pam Brock, executive editor

Madison magazine is the official magazine of James Madison University. Read the latest issue.