“The Legend Has Retired. ”"Professor S Cudjoe"

“The Legend Has Retired. ”Professor S Cudjoe"

On June 30, 2024, I will say farewell to Wellesley College, a place at which I have taught for 38 years. I have taught at several elite institutions in the United States such as Harvard, Cornell, Ohio and Fordham universities, but Wellesley holds a special place in my heart. I have grown fond of it over the years. The college yesterday held a symposium and dinner to honor my services to the institution and my academic contributions internationally. Paula Johnson, president of the college who was a student at Harvard University when I taught there in the 1970s, and Prof Kellie Carter Jackson, chairman of the Africana Studies Department, opened the function.

Several scholars from around the world gathered to bid me farewell: Louisa Uchum Egbunike, Associate Professor of African literature, Durham University in the UK; Dr Adekeye Adebajo, Senior Research Fellow, University of Pretoria, South Africa; Dr Kwadwo Osei-Nyame Jnr, former lecturer in African and Caribbean literature, SOSA, University of London; Prof Carole Boyce-Davies, a fellow Trinidadian and chair of the English Department at Howard; Dr Biodun Jeyifo, Professor Emeritus, African and African American studies and comparative literature, Harvard University.

Teaching at Wellesley has been a monumental achievement. I give thanks for having the strength to serve my students and my college for such a long time. I am not sure where life may take me but I look forward to giving greater service to the people of the land of my birth.

Dear Selwyn,

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”
– Henry B. Adams

I trust this correspondence reaches you in excellent health and high spirits. I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for the significant impact you have made on the lives of your students and the academic community at Wellesley College. Your work and dedication are truly praiseworthy. 

The dedication and expertise you brought to your teaching are truly admirable. You engaged your students and inspire a passion for learning truly showcases your remarkable talent as an educator. The passion you brought to the classroom was infectious, cultivating a space that encourages inquisitiveness, analytical reasoning, and cognitive development, noted by students.

In addition to your outstanding teaching skills, your mentorship and guidance have played a crucial role in influencing the lives and professional paths of many students. Their steadfast backing and unwavering faith in their capabilities have fostered a sense of assurance and emboldened them to pursue their aspirations. You demonstrate a commitment to their success that goes well beyond the confines of the classroom, as you devote your time and energy to assisting them in navigating the obstacles they encounter in academia and beyond. 

Your influence as a mentor extends far beyond academic accomplishments. The sincere concern you show for the welfare and growth of your students is truly praiseworthy. You have consistently provided valuable guidance and support, offering a compassionate ear, insightful advice, and uplifting encouragement in times of both success and challenge. Your talent for establishing meaningful connections with your students and fostering a caring atmosphere is a true reflection of your outstanding qualities. 

Professor Cudjoe, your impact in education extends well beyond the confines of Wellesley College and T&T. Your commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and social justice has left a lasting impression on the academic community. We greatly admire your dedication to promoting fairness and inclusivity, which serves as a source of inspiration for everyone. 

I wanted to convey my heartfelt appreciation for your steadfast dedication to achieving the highest standards of quality and your genuine enthusiasm for fostering knowledge. Your influence has spread far and wide, leaving a lasting impression on many people's academic and personal paths. Your commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity and empowering future leaders is truly commendable. 

Thank you, Professor Cudjoe, for your diligent work, your steadfast encouragement, and your commitment to the pursuit of knowledge. The lasting impression you have made on those fortunate enough to learn from you is truly remarkable. May you continue to foster positive change and inspire countless individuals in your future years of retirement in T&T.

With great respect,
Sarge