I am the Legal and Administrative Counsel. I also am the Special Assistant to the President for Diversity and Inclusion. I do not have a typical day, which is what makes my job so interesting. As legal counsel, I review contracts and advise colleagues on a wide variety of legal issues. I also work closely with our Human Resources Department on personnel issues. I consult with colleagues on a variety of administrative issues. I am involved with special projects, such as the renovation of the Lord Jeff [Inn]. Finally, I am engaged in activities relating to the College’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, such as meeting with search committees and with candidates for faculty and administrative positions. My days tend to be very full.
Where did you grow up?
Philadelphia. I still need to go there to get the best cheesesteak.
What was your childhood like?
My childhood was a happy one. My parents are exceptional. I received a good education at Central High School, the country’s second oldest public high school. I was on Central’s track, cross country and fencing teams. Also, our house was near a playground, which gave me ample opportunity to hone my basketball skills ... which have always been modest, at best.
What is your family like?
I am blessed to be part of a very close family. I have an older brother (Wesleyan ’70) and a younger sister. I met my wife, Dale, during my senior year at Amherst, when she was a sophomore at Mt. Holyoke. We have three children — Michele (Amherst ’02), Bryce and Cassie (Wesleyan ’13). This past weekend, my parents, siblings, children and six-week-old grandchild were in Amherst. My brother had special shirts made to commemorate the 40th anniversary of our first Amherst-Wesleyan football game. My parents, brother and I have attended almost every Amherst-Wesleyan football game during that period. They are always special occasions (even when it rains).
What is your favorite place in the world?
Mt. Desert Island, home of Bar Harbor, Maine. I am always struck by its natural beauty. It’s also a wonderful place for outdoor activities.
Who is your favorite musical artist/group?
Mariah Carey. Her voice is truly amazing.
How did you end up in Amherst?
I first came to Amherst in 1969 because I wanted to attend a small liberal arts college. After graduating in 1973, I went straight to Yale Law School and then straight to a large Boston law firm, where I stayed for 33 years. I was one of the first African-Americans to join a large Boston law firm and then one of the first to become a partner. I chaired the firm’s real estate department and various firm committees. For several years, I was the partner responsible for the firm’s day-to-day operations. Although my experience at the law firm was very rewarding, I decided that I needed a change. I also decided that I wanted to join an organization whose mission is important to me. Education has always been such a mission. Amherst has always been close to my heart. So, I am very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to use my legal and administrative experience to help my alma mater.
Who is one person you would love to meet?
Barack Obama, naturally. A fascinating person who already has done so much for our country and has the potential to do so much more.
What is your favorite hobby or activity?
I enjoy outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking and kayaking. I also am a long-time (and formerly, long-suffering) Red Sox fan.
How many years have you worked at Amherst?
Years? Nov. 17 marks the first anniversary of my employment by the College. But, what a year it’s been!
What is your favorite memory of being at Amherst?
As a student? I enjoyed my four years here and don’t have just one favorite memory. I was a physics major, which was fun. I enjoyed interacting with the faculty. But I also enjoyed interacting with other students and exchanging ideas in informal settings ... such as while playing bid whist.