New Stafford Professorship Awarded to Christopher Klyza

Author: Leyla Kattan

Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies Christopher McGrory Klyza is set to receive the Robert and Helen Stafford Professorship in Public Policy in recognition of his work in environmental studies and public policy. Klyza was officially informed of his appointment to this new professorship last week.
A professorship -- established in this case in honor of former Vermont Senator Robert Stafford and his wife Helen -- is one of the highest accolades that a faculty member can receive. Klyza will be the first to hold the position as Stafford Professor, which has been awarded to him in recognition of his work in the field of public policy. Along with the title, Klyza will be awarded a salary supplement as well as a $6,000 research fund to be used for research or for expenses such as travel or to attract special guests to speak on campus.
The Stafford Professorship was established by the College and awarded to Klyza by President John McCardell in consultation with Dean of Faculty Robert Schine and Provost and Executive Vice President Ronald Liebowitz. The appointment is for five years, with the possibility of renewal at the end of this period. Klyza will give his inaugural lecture as Stafford Professor this spring and will take up the appointment on July 1, 2003.
As noted in a press release sent out to the Middlebury College community, the position is named for former Vermont Senator Robert T. Stafford and his wife Helen, both of whom graduated from Middlebury College in 1935 and 1938 respectively. Robert Stafford was noted for having served in every major statewide office -- attorney general, lieutenant governor, governor, U.S. representative and U.S. senator.
As a member of Congress he championed the environment and more accessible higher education. His lifetime record is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the community at large.
Klyza, who was officially informed of his appointment to the Stafford Chair last week, has been recognized for his work in the field of environmental studies and public policy. After graduating from Cornell University, Klyza went on to receive his Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from Duke University and the University of Minnesota respectively. He is the author of numerous essays and articles, as well as publications such as Wilderness Comes Home, and Who Controls Public Lands?
As McCardell made known in the press release, "Klyza's teaching and research in the field of environmental studies is well recognized and highly regarded. He is a most appropriate appointee to the Stafford Professorship."
Klyza acknowledged the honor of being recognized for excellence in teaching and scholarship: "Senator Stafford had a distinguished public career and was a major force behind passing the Superfund law in Congress," he said. "To hold a chair named in honor of him and his wife is a real privilege."