Born on September 3, 1939, the dawn of World War II, Dr. John D. Murray is a well-regarded member of the Manhattanville College community. Teaching at Manhattanville since 1975, Dr. Murray enjoys its "small, friendly, and informal atmosphere". He says, "It's not stuffy, and there are good student-faculty relations." With many years of experience behind him, it is easy to see why "absolutely nothing" amazes the veteran anymore. Living life with no regrets, much can be learned from Dr. Murray.
Why did you decide to teach at Manhattanville?
It was an easy thing. I began my teaching career at Rutgers where I was awarded tenure. Then the Board of Governors (Trustees) for the University cancelled all 52 scheduled tenure appointments because of a severe budget crisis in New Jersey in 1975. All of us had been recommended for tenure by our university-wide departments and review committees, but the Board of Governors, for the first time in the history of Rutgers, cancelled the scheduled tenured appointments. It was shocking at the time but turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to me and my colleagues.
How would you evaluate your experience at Manhattanville?
It’s been excellent: a perfect fit. I’m so delighted to have been here. It’s been a good place for me to be.
What is one of the most important lessons you have learned at Manhattanville?
To be forthright and open in relations. Just to be very honest in relationships.
What would you like to see change?
I’d like to see an infusion of a great deal of money to reinvigorate the buildings, perhaps put up an environmental science building. That’s the overriding need: money (fundraising).
When are you retiring?
I’ve entered into the voluntary-phased retirement program. I carry a much lighter teaching load, giving up my advisees. In June of 2013, I’ll be fully retired.
What are your post-retirement plans?
I don’t know yet. I’m very, very open on that. I’ll probably stay in this area and do some part-time teaching. I'm interested in foreign languages and photography. That's the entrée into culture. I want to do some traveling as well. Photography, foreign language, and travel all fit together nicely.
How do you pass time outside of the classroom?
I do a lot of reading. I’m pretty passionate about baseball, noteably the Red Sox.
Who is your favorite author?
That's a hard question. Right now, I really enjoy the novels of Alan Furst. The rich detail in his writing is often set in the eve of World War II in the back roads of eastern Europe. He brings that world alive. He’s an extraordinary writer. David McCullough is a historian and biographer who brings alive the American past. The two authors can not be compared.
Who are some of your favorite musicians?
Handel and Mozart (classical). I love listening to jazz because I find it relaxing.
Who are your favorite comedians?
Jack Benny is a classic. Jon Stewart, who's more contemporary, is spectacular. He’s very, very, very funny.
How do you feel about modern technology?
There are enormous benefits, and there are problems. I see students with iPods closing out the world.
Which words of advice can you offer?
Just be open—communicate. Be forthright in your dealings, and life will be good.
Sources
- Dr. John D. Murray, in interview, 2011.
