Sept|Oct 2012
Volume 111, No. 1
Beyond the Shouting
From the Editor: Sept|Oct 2012
Making Democracy Safer for Governing
Even the best-intentioned politicians can find themselves distracted from the public interest by factors ranging from the continual demands of fundraising, to the expectations of supporters and activists, to an often cynical, “horse-race” obsessed media. But even in the era of the permanent campaign, there are ways to foster an environment more conducive to governing.
Dispatches from the Front
In a series of interviews and book excerpts, three of Penn’s most prominent political alumni—Ed Rendell C’65 Hon’00, Jon M. Huntsman Jr. C’87 Hon’10, and Arlen Specter C’51—discuss their time as office-seekers and public servants, and offer some hard-earned advice about what needs fixing.
Toward a More Perfect Union
Whoever wins the White House will confront challenges and opportunities that were lost in the fog of electioneering. Penn scholars address five areas that the campaigns muddled, ignored, or failed to think big about.
Engaging Minds by the Millions
From College Hall | Penn is exploring—with enthusiasm—the potential and challenges of online pedagogy.
Letters
Sept|Oct 2012
Pledge of Allegiance
A Connecticut Canadian in a New Haven court.
The Hardest Move
Helping seniors move into new homes is my business. Helping my Aunt Betty was something more.
The Man Who Killed French Culture
How to lose friends, alienate people, and wind up getting bear hugs.
The Third Man
How America’s secret hunt for al Qaeda’s No. 3 transformed the struggle against terrorism.
Rites of Spring
How to get an A in self-awareness.
Longtime Financial Aid Head Schilling Says Farewell
Financial-aid director Bill Schilling C’66 L’69 retires after 40 years.
Making a Wish and Paying it Forward
Yali Derman Nu’13 honored by Glamour, grateful kids.
New Directors for Penn Museum, ICA
Julian Siggers begins his tenure at the Penn Museum; Amy Sadao, assumes her new post at the ICA.
Galaxy Chaser
Thomas Krane C’13 is headed for the stars—or maybe Wall Street.
A Palestra Icon Hangs Up His Mop
“Palestra Dan” Harrell CGS’00 has left the building.