University of Virginia Library

READJUSTMENT OF DR. COMBS' DUTIES

President Darden reported on his recent visits to Mary Washington College and his
discussions with Dr. Combs, Dean Alvey, Mr. Woodward, the faculty, and groups of students.
He expressed optimism that Dr. Combs would find great advantage in his own health and strength
as well as in the interest and value of his work, once he accustomed himself to carrying
a more limited burden. The temporary arrangements set up for the remainder of the present
session, give Dean Alvey increased responsibilities over personnel and Mr. Woodward over
business matters. In addition joint committees are being set up for the University and for
Mary Washington College on (1) Appointments and Promotions, and (2) Quality of Instruction.
At a faculty meeting which he and Dr. Combs had jointly addressed, some progress appeared
to have been made in enlisting sympathy and interest in administrative planning for
strengthening the College

In a two-hour discussion that Mr. Darden had held with groups of students, he had been
impressed with their emphatic desire for tougher academic standards. The exceptionally
high quality and number of students now seeking admission will make possible greater
selectivity and higher standards. Higher fees and better faculty salaries will be necessary
In view of experience at Charlottesville complete freedom of opinion in student publications
appears desirable

The Rector, after commenting on President Darden's arduous labors at Richmond and on reports
of the favorable effect on faculty morale of Mr. Darden's work in Fredericksburg, spoke briefly
of the recent efforts of the Board to strengthen the administration of Mary Washington College.
He also read to the Board the two letters on the subject received since the last meeting.

Mr. Black also read to the Board the text drafted by Dr. Combs for the letter he had agreed
to write to persons who had written to the Board. Dr. Combs had been furnished with the names
and addresses on the day following the last Board meeting, but the letters have not yet been
sent. Dr. Combs had written on his own volition to the parents of one of the students interviewed
and disciplined on November 19th, the Rector proposed that the same text be used for
letters to the parents of the other three, but it is not yet known whether the letters have been sent