Eric's Defense

1 May 2004 -- Eric Closs' thesis defense was well received last night.  The presentation consisted of a dramatic performance of Eric's written thesis, which is a dialogue in the Platonic style.  The mood was lightened by having the dialogue read by Joe Roach and John Hiner, two members of the Staff, who were nobly attired in white chitons. Following the reading, Eric spoke for several minutes, elaborating on some of the issues raised in his paper, and giving some background about his career at The New School and his plans for the near future.

Eric has served in several offices at the School, including Chair of School Meeting, Recording Secretary, and Judicial Committee Clerk.  Eric has also been active in the seminar series at the School, for the last several years, and has participated in several curricles.  Eric is also a driving force behind the ongoing fencing program in the School..

After a small break with refreshments, the defense was reconvened and Eric faced one hour and twenty minutes of questioning from members of the Assembly.  Eric conducted himself in a calm and deliberative manner.  He seemed to give serious thought to each question and responded with interesting and stimulating comments.  Several in the audience felt that the conversation was engaging enough to warrant pursuing various threads which it raised at a later time.

After the questioning, Eric and his parents retired, while the Assembly discussed Eric's career and qualifications.  After airing both positive and negative issues, and assessing Eric's history at the School and the likelihood of his continuing growth, education, and development of appreciation of beauty and whimsy, in a college environment, those in attendance voted.

Eric was recommended unanimously (30-0-0) to receive a diploma at this June's meeting of the Assembly.

Eric's Thesis Review Committee is now preparing its report.

Eric plans to enter St. John's College, at Annapolis, Maryland, this coming September.  He has already been accepted for admission by the college.