More on MATC

In his on-line column for Milwaukee Magazine, Bruce Murphy takes a much more skeptical stance towards the shepherd article on MATC changes than I did yesterday. Certainly there are valid reasons for his skepticism. In my experience, the people quoted in the article spent most of their energy opposing an reexamination of MATC that might lead to its better serving its students, particularly the neediest students who could most benefit from the technical programs that open the door to good jobs. Thus I was surprised to find myself agreeing with their criticisms of the purported direction of MATC.

The other reason for skepticism is the Shepherd itself. Can it be trusted to fairly report this issue? Too often ideology trumps journalistic integrity, so that the story that fits the Shepherd's publisher's mindset runs whether or not it is accurate.

I continue, however, to worry that the direction implied in the article is accurate--that MATC is moving from a mission of preparing people for jobs to emphasizing liberal arts. I think the first role is unique to MATC, while the second is one that many other institutions can do better.

That said, it is refreshing to have Murphy's voice back. He helps fill the huge gap between the ideologues on the far right and the far left.