I had been hired by the then dean of the Division of Arts and Sciences, Bob Kennedy, on the recommendation of the head of the Social Sciences Department, Norman Cruikshanks. I recall McPhee greeting the assembled faculty and staff and, turning to the new faculty, welcoming us into the "Cal Poly family." I was to learn as I watched the behavior of Norman Cruikshanks and Bob Kennedy over the years, McPhee really meant "loyal" members of his family would anticipate what he saw as good for Cal Poly--questioning any part of his vision for the university and how it should be carried out was childish behavior which deserved just punishment.

Speaking directly to the new faculty, I can still hear McPhee's words. "I may not be able to do all the things you might want to make your life happy here at Cal Poly, but I will try. If you find that you are not happy working here, come and see me. I can do something about that." I did learn to appreciate tenure, and I never did go to see Julian. - Will Alexander