Nineteen years ago, I chose to join Oxford College over several offersfrom different respected universities. I was primarily interested inOxford because of its dual nature that is not found in any otheracademic institution in the nation. I thought this was an ideal fit forwhat I have always desired: to place teaching at the center of myprofessional activities, yet to also be able to pursue my scholarlyinterests as a faculty member of a major research university.