I am a former student of Professor Jones and I’m deeply troubled by the news of his firing. Please reconsider this decision as I cannot think of another professor who better embodies the mission of UMass Boston.

Professor Jones was my guide in my intellectual journey at UMB. It is difficult to describe the feeling he fostered in his classroom. It was both a pleasure and privilege to see him engage his students—he made a room of 20 strangers feel like life-long friends when we discussed our readings. Keith challenged me to become a deeper thinker and writer, and I will always be so grateful for time he was my teacher.

I witnessed something special in his classroom. Not only did Professor Jones teach about literature and history, but he fostered within me a deeper sense of what it means to be a member of our community. I think this a great disservice to current and future students of UMB.

I am sure I am not the only person who feels this way. Again, please reconsider this choice.