Mentor Extraordinaire

Abstract

Mentor Extraordinaire Angelo D. Robinson (bio) As a student of Professor Joseph T. Skerrett from fall 1995 to summer 2001, I studied three courses with him, including his phenomenal seminar on Richard Wright, Ralph Ellison, and James Baldwin. From my initial visit in consideration of the graduate program to my departure, he was the most prominent figure in my academic training at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He saw his responsibility to me and other graduate students as sharing knowledge and offering constructive criticism without apology, straight and to the point. With this pedagogical philosophy, he inspired us to do our best with kindness and a pleasant professional demeanor. During my third year of graduate school, I was not only a student of Prof. Skerrett but an employee as well in my role as assistant editor at MELUS, along with managing editor Arlene Rodriguez. During this time, I was fortunate to see and learn from Prof. Skerrett, the literary editor and journal businessman, by participating in the process of producing and distributing a quarterly academic publication. When it later became time to select a dissertation director, the choice was, as they say, “a no brainer.” Though intense and stressful at times, it was a positive experience thanks to Prof. Skerrett’s calm and guidance. His wisdom and direction also served me well on the job market. Regarding the interview process, Prof. Skerrett prepared me well for this daunting and intimidating process, including CV and cover letter consultation. On one campus interview, his teaching presentation recommendation set me miles ahead of the competition and landed me the job offer! Once I began my teaching career, Prof. Skerrett continued to mentor me. His encouragement and advice was priceless to a sometimes bewildered beginning professor. His insight on course development and overall pedagogical advice graciously guided me through the phase of junior faculty to the demands of service, teaching, and research in pursuing tenure. As a result of his care and attention, I thought that all dissertation directors acted in this way, but each time I relate to a colleague or friend that I have consulted with Prof. Skerrett in this way, they share that they are amazed, surprised, and often envious at my relationship with my former professor and advisor so many years after being one of his students. For this and so much more, I will always appreciate and cherish Prof. Skerrett as my teacher, advisor, mentor, and friend. [End Page 5] Angelo D. Robinson ANGELO D. ROBINSON, recipient of the PhD in English at the University of Massachusetts (Amherst), is Associate Professor of English at Goucher College in Baltimore County. Copyright © 2016 Johns Hopkins University Press