Saturday, November 14, 2020
Professor Dean taught me more than he might have imagined when I was his student in 1968-69. A second-year student then, I was both naive about scholarship and arrogant about my own capabilities. Dr. Dean took the time to call me into his office, explain clearly that my glib superficiality merited even less than the C he had given me, and then offered advice about how to improve on the next paper. I was hurt and angry yet sensed that he cared. So I got to work. In that year I learnt a great deal about research that benefited me enormously in the next years of study. I never forgot his way of balancing his love for the literature and his respect for students. Years later when I began teaching English for St. Thomas More College, I often used my experience with Dr. Dean not only to try to motivate my students into turning a low grade into a learning opportunity, but also to reassure myself that the teaching of literature was a worthwhile endeavour.
My condolences to the family. I am sure he will be deeply missed.
