Things aren't always as they seem.
This saying most accurately depicts Auburn and how things are run at this University.
E-mails are sent to students that are meant to smooth over rather precarious situations.
Most recently the sudden resignation of Dean of Students Johnny Green has piqued the interest of myself and others.
Why would Green submit a resignation only three years into his term? And one that would be effective the following day?
Why are talks now that the University may not fill that position, but simply add an assistant vice president of student affairs?
Additionally, in what capacity will Green stay with the University and why was that not outlined in the e-mail?
People who follow the University and its dealings may recall that Green was not chosen after a nationwide search, but simply was moved from the political science department.
His predecessor, Kent Smith, held the position for two years, bringing the position back into existence.
The University moved from a VP of student affairs to the dean of students position after Wes Williams moved to a different department.
Now it seems the University has decided to call backsies and return to the VP of student affairs position.
Not many were surprised that Green "resigned," but many were surprised at how soon the decision came. When word first came that the University was shopping for a VP for student affairs, people started whispering. Whispers became a hum of imminence when Ainsley Carry filled the position.
Soon after Carry took office, Green's office was moved from the third floor of the Student Center to the second floor.
Again an e-mail was sent to spin the move in a positive light.
I believe it said Green would be closer to students if his office was on the second floor.
The questions students are left with may never be truthfully answered. This is the Auburn way. The "family," which is so proudly boasted, is a dysfunctional one at best.
The whole truth is never revealed, one can only assume, because it is either incriminating or unfavorable.
In his short term as dean of students, Green made a huge impact with students.
It was either his open door policy, listed cell phone number, signature "War Eagle" at the end of his e-mails or his ability to tell each student what he or she wanted to hear.
Far be it for him to set the standard of truth at the University. He was just simply the liaison between students and the administration.
Let's hope Carry can withstand the test of the position and fulfill it in the way the administration sees fit or we may see another search in a few years.
Too many questions remain unanswered, and too many e-mails have been sent. The University needs to address these in a truthful manner, if only to regain some of its credibility with students.
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