I am writing this letter out of disgust over the events that appear to be transpiring at my alma mater. As an alumnus of Boston University (and an active one at that), I can think of no greater embarrassment to a university that has fought very hard to achieve all that it has in the last several decades.

I am familiar with a sense of pride when I inform others where I received my undergraduate education. I enjoy the credibility and relatively untarnished reputation that BU exudes as it displays itself as a credential in my professional biography. I donate both my time and my money enthusiastically to the university because I believe in its foundation and its future.

If the coup-esque actions that the Board of Trustees are attempting to execute over not-yet-inaugurated President-elect Goldin are allowed to succeed, I can honestly say that that my and I believe many others’ faith in the future of Boston University will be snuffed in the process.

To the world outside of Suffolk County, this situation appears to be nothing short of childish, manipulative and dictatorial. I expect that the university will suffer a massive blow if this sophomoric act is allowed to proceed. Dr. Silber, more than anyone, should realize that universities are only as successful as their reputations and endowments allow them to be. Should the Board of Trustees vote to rescind Mr. Goldin’s offer, I am confident that both of these fundamental components of success will suffer, and suffer greatly.

It has taken Dr. Silber a very long time to build Boston University into the establishment of excellence that it is today. I certainly hope that the same man does not sabotage his own hard work in lieu of preserving his other major interest his ego.

David A. Schonthal CAS ’99

The writer is the co-chairman of the Boston University Alumni Association in Chicago.