With all the editorial column inches we have given to teachers failing to meet expectations, it is time to shed light on one who far exceeds any standards for teaching excellence.
E.B. That is how most people know him. And most in the University of La Verne community do know him, whether they are a student or a member of the faculty or staff.
Eric Bishop is both associate professor of journalism and adviser to the Campus Times. But to many, he is more than that.
After more than two years at this school, much of it dedicated to the Communications Department and the Campus Times, I have had ample opportunities to find out exactly what kind of professor, adviser, friend, mentor and person E.B. is.
He fulfills each role and does it with a passion and level of excellence above and beyond any reasonable expectation. And after more than six years as an integral part of this university, E.B. is eligible for tenure.
I can think of no other professor at this school who deserves it more. Any student who has come through the Communications Department would say the same.
And despite reservations from E.B. suggesting otherwise, I felt it appropriate to use this space to express my sincere appreciation and explain why he deserves this, the highest vote of confidence from the University. It tells the individual, we appreciate what you have done for this University and we would like you to continue to be a part of it and continue to contribute your knowledge and experience.
E.B. is the best professor I have had at La Verne, and there are a number of high-quality instructors at this University. As a journalism student who has worked at a “real” newspaper, I can say that the education I have received in journalism classes and as a part of the Campus Times has been more than adequate preparation for the professional world.
Most of the people who graduate from this department are more than qualified to join the ranks of the Fourth Estate, and many of them have excelled in their profession. E.B.’s instruction has played an important role in that.
To many students, E.B. is more than just a professor. He is a friend, someone they can come to with their problems, as petty as they may be, and receive advice or guidance. Most students would tell you, he is always there when they need him.
Countless times, I have seen students who feel panicked and seek his consultation on issues both school-related and outside the realm of La Verne. And every time, they come out feeling better about the situation and with an idea of what they need to do.
Most professors, I would say, are more than happy to offer assistance to students. The difference is students feel comfortable coming to him and confiding in him, knowing they will get compassion and good advice.
I consider E.B. a mentor, and not only because of his expertise in the journalism field, and more specifically, sports journalism, which is my area of interest. He has helped me a great deal in that area. The things I have learned have made me a capable journalist. But more than that they have made me a better person.
E.B. has been both a student and professor at this university. Not too long ago he was doing the same thing I am now, and he has demonstrated his dedication to this university.
This department reflects E.B.’s personality, and that is why it is such a great department. This department would not be the same if he were not a part of it.
That is why the University needs to affirm its commitment to a superior quality of professors, a commitment that should include instructors such as Eric Bishop.
I would hate to think what the alternative says about the University, especially at such an important time as this. The University is growing at a tremendous rate, and it is important to retain professors like E.B. to maintain the integrity of the institution and uphold the standards the University has set for itself.
Brice Nixon, a junior journalism major, is editor in chief of the Campus Times. He can be reached by e-mail at nixonb@ulv.edu.
