'...Remaining tight-lipped about a matter that involves a public figure who is paid with public dollars and is the face of a major public institution is unwise. [A smidgeon of SOS here: If you tighten this, you get a better opening sentence: "Remaining tight-lipped about a matter involving a public figure paid with public dollars, a man who's the face of a major public institution, is unwise."] Though it provides a handy shroud of ambiguity for those in question, at this point, whether Poshard sleeps well at night should not be a priority.

Sometimes good people do bad things. We do not dispute that Poshard is a well-liked man, capable of great accomplishments and good deeds. But if the Pope was accused of plagiarizing his sermons, we would still expect a prompt investigation.

Unprecedented situations are difficult. We understand it is hard for the faculty of this university to question their boss. However, it does not dismiss them from doing so.

Finally, if the [Board of Trustees] wants to maintain any level of credibility, it needs to follow the rules it deems fit for the rest of us. The graduate school handbook already outlines the procedure for academic dishonesty.

What more is there to say?'