Columnist’s quotes come into question as source doesn’t recall interview

Letters to the editor
Published: May 19, 2008

Columnist’s quotes come into question as source doesn’t recall interview

In response to Paul Davis’ column (“Choice of New AU Trustee Raises Old Eyebrows”) in the May 11 issue: Since I have not spoken with Davis in almost four years, I was surprised that he would reveal details from a supposed conversation between me and Auburn University’s newest trustee nominee, Raymond J. Harbert. The conversation as described never took place.

It is true that Harbert and I spoke while dining at the same table during an AU Foundation event last year. At that time, Harbert mentioned that he and his wife had decided to send their children to out-of-state universities.

Harbert explained that the decision was driven simply by the couple’s desire to broaden their children’s perspective; never did he question Auburn’s academic credentials.  Harbert also discussed this matter during his interview with the Auburn Trustee Selection Committee on May 2. For the record, I don’t believe the Harbert children’s college choices reflect adversely on either Auburn University or Harbert’s ability to serve as an AU trustee.

Davis also wrote that I joined with committee member Neil Christopher in voting against Harbert for the trustee seat. Despite Davis’ implication otherwise, my vote did not reflect any ill will toward Harbert; I simply voted for the candidate, former AU Foundation president Sally Jones Hill, who Dr. Christopher and I agreed was an excellent match for trustee based on her demonstrated history of service and support for Auburn.

I do agree with Davis that Harbert’s credentials are impeccable, and I believe that he will be an outstanding trustee. For the good of Auburn, I
certainly hope so.

J. Ralph Jordan
President
Auburn Alumni Association