We are hopeful that new initiatives by the University of New Mexico will move this unfortunate conflict further towards, if not full resolution, at least an agreement by everyone to work together collaboratively.

In a letter to faculty (April 24) the Provost stated of the Deputy Provost's determination was not successful, and that this did include an Ethics consultation. However a further appeal to the President has been initiated, and as we have commented before, some people have attempted to export the conflict off the campus.

We believe that a real attempt has been made to unpack the issues, and indicate the appropriate channels for individuals to express their specific concerns. Central to this is the consideration of the working and learning environment which needs addressing promptly, and separating this from making it an issue around the role of individuals and their actions. We applaud the efforts to involve an external facilitator to nurture a sense of professionalism in all concerned and to ensure that all viewpoints are heard and respected, and their particular issues addressed.

It will clearly be important that the facilitator address wider dynamic and structural issues within the department that may have contributed to an environemt in which conflict could thrive and escalate. It is to be hoped that goodwill and the pursuit of common goals will prevail over individual differences of opinion.

Michael Goodyear