A Wade Davenport, Ph.D.
Dean of Arts and Sciences
Office:
Temple 102B
Phone: 434-797-8402
Email:
wdavenport@dcc.vccs.edu
Education
B.A. -
The University of West
Florida, 1974
M.S. - Troy State University, 1975
M.A. - San Francisco State University, 1978
Ph.D. - The American University, 1987
As the Dean of the Arts and Sciences Division, it would be appropriate for me to express my basic beliefs about education and its importance. First, education is essential to empowering individuals in the conduct of their own lives. Being able to think critically, understand the perspectives of others, and solve problems in multiple arenas are essential strengths developed in the process of education. They are also necessary in the conduct of an individual life. Second, democracy requires an educated citizenry.
The same attributes of critical thought and reflection which empower the conduct of an individual life are attributes needed by our society. An educated citizen contributes to the social dialogue in which solutions to social problems are formed and in which the proposed solutions of political leaders are submitted to careful scrutiny. Finally, the process of advancing oneself and one's community through education is difficult and requires significant effort and perseverance on the part of students. Confronting new material, mastering new skills, and securing the level of understanding expected by faculty in college courses is not easy. Students who commit their time and energies to the tasks of learning deserve our support and respect. I believe that faculty in the Arts and Sciences Division are committed to providing that support.