Wharton Professors' Perspectives on Donald Trump's Presidential Candidacy
Donald J. Trump's journey from a Harvard Business School dropout to a presidential candidate has been widely debated. Among those with significant insight into his background is the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Here, we explore the opinions and observations of Wharton professors regarding Trump's candidacy.
The Attitude of Wharton Professors
When asked about their thoughts on Trump's presidential run, Wharton professors have generally expressed reservations, stating that they do not believe he should be running and are unlikely to support his candidacy. Many have also admitted to feeling a degree of embarrassment, considering that Trump attended their prestigious institution.
Dr. William T. Kelley's Notable Remark
One of the most striking comments came from Late Professor William T. Kelley, who taught Marketing at Wharton for 31 years until his retirement in 1982. Dr. Kelley, a renowned business consultant and former author, had a lasting impression on the student who would go on to become a presidential candidate. He famously told several students, with great emphasis, that 'Donald Trump was the dumbest goddam student I ever had.' This was not just a casual remark but a statement made with considerable authority and clarity, suggesting that Trump's performance at Wharton was notably subpar.
Donald Trump's Academic Background
Donald Trump matriculated at Wharton for the final two years of his college education, having graduated in 1968. According to professor Kelley, Trump came to Wharton with a preconceived notion that he already knew everything, showcasing an arrogance and arrogance that perhaps contributed to his less-than-impressive academic performance.
Wharton's Official Stance
When approached for comments on Trump's presidential campaign, Wharton officials chose to remain silent. Specifically, they declined to make Dean Geoffrey Garrett or any professors available for interviews. This response has led some to speculate that the school may have been under directives not to comment publicly on the matter.
Wharton Students' Perspective
While Wharton professors choose not to publicly comment, students and alumni have not been as reticent. An open letter published in Fortune, titled 'Wharton Students Blast Alum Donald Trump in an Open Letter,' highlights the collective stance of Wharton community members. The letter expresses outrage at the school's association with Trump's campaign, denouncing his endorsement of xenophobia, sexism, racism, and other forms of intolerance. Although the students do not make any explicit political endorsements, their unequivocal condemnation of these issues is evident.
Conclusion
The Wharton School's professors and students offer a multifaceted view of Donald Trump, reflecting both academic judgment and social concerns. The school's cautious stance and the students' open condemnation encapsulate the complex relationship between an educational institution and a political figure who once called one of its halls his home.