U of MN Apologizes

In a follow up to the item this week about the U of MN employee who used university time and computers to cuss out the American Family Association (AFA), it seems a letter writing campaign has had the effect of eliciting an apology from both the President of the U and the individual employee who did the cussing.
Here is the AFA report.

Yesterday (November 2), we received the following response from President Bruininks:

"Thank you for your email voicing concern regarding a University employee's use of offensive language to describe his views in an email using his University account.

"The University promotes a culture of tolerance and mutual respect and does not condone this kind of language. Our Code of Conduct policy establishes the expectation that all University employees adhere to the highest ethical standards of professional conduct and integrity. We are addressing this matter internally, and I am sure you understand state law prohibits discussing personnel matters publicly.

"Our understanding is that the employee has apologized for the manner in which he articulated his opinion. We appreciate your taking the time to share your concerns and your interest in the University of Minnesota."

In addition, we received the following apology from the state employee:

"After serious reflection, I would like to apologize to Mr. Sharp for the comments I posted on your website on 25 October, 2005. I acted in anger and now in retrospect I regret the way in which I communicated and worded my comments. Please accept my apology and relay this message to Mr. Sharp. Thank you for your time."

Bruiniks is right. The university does promote a culture of tolerance and mutual respect. The employee was disrespectful. But the AFA could also change its tone a little. It doesn't cost extra to show a little respect to anyone.