At Mass Live, Carolyn Robbins writes that a retired math professor known for having a favorite number is being honored with his own road sign. This could only happen at Hampshire College.
“There are probably an infinite number of ways to say goodbye to a beloved math professor, but Hampshire College’s David Kelly would prefer his students and colleagues keep it to just 17.
“Kelly, who has taught the mathematical and social history of the number 17 during his four and a half decades of teaching, didn’t want a party. So, instead of a dinner reception, Hampshire College decided to give Kelly the lasting tribute he preferred. …
“Elizabeth Conlisk, a professor of public health, together with Hampshire College President Jonathan Lash, worked to make it happen. All of the 15 mph speed limit signs on campus have come down and been replaced with ones that read 17 mph.
“Kelly’s reaction of seeing the new 17 mph speed limit signs for the first time: ” ‘It felt very good,’ he said. ‘And soon after, someone from admissions told me a prospective student was visiting campus, and when he drove up and saw the 17 mph sign he said, “I’m going here.” ‘ ” More here.
Photo: Hampshire College, Amherst, Massachusetts
Professor David Kelly taught the mathematical and social history of the number 17. In his honor, all the 15 mph speed limit signs on campus came down, replaced by 17 mph speed limit signs.
Now that’s a tribute! So much better than anything else I can think of!
Goes to show, when you want to do something nice for people, ask them what they would prefer. (Maybe they already knew he wasn’t the type to want a farewell dinner.)