We are pleased to welcome you as a member of The Fletcher School community!
One of the most unique aspects you will encounter is the diversity of beliefs, cultures, values, and aspirations represented in our students, fellows, faculty, and staff. The perspective of every member contributes to the strength of this community and indeed defines it by providing invaluable first-hand information. You are therefore encouraged to share your views, listen carefully, and be respectful in your actions and words. This is, however, often more challenging than it may appear.
Academically, we are trained to analyze rationally and to calmly intellectualize and dissect the complex issues that abound in this world, which often includes examining crises that occur during the school year. In our academic pursuits, in class or out of class, in our debates electronically or in person, it is easy to forget that some members of the community may be impacted on a very personal level, and we can inadvertently be insensitive to their realities. As long as world crises and conflict continue and Fletcher remains diverse in its membership and goals, the potential for such misunderstandings will exist.
Mastering civility and mutual respect, finding common values and building community cannot be taught in a classroom or acquired by reading a textbook. Theses traits are the very core of diplomacy, and often require considerable experience to manage well. This uniquely diverse community provides the opportunity to develop and hone characteristics that will serve your academic, professional, and personal life regardless of where your ultimate career path leads you. They will become aspects of your character for which you will be respected and remembered.
We expect that your time at Fletcher, in a diverse and multi-cultural community, will promote a more balanced and self-examined life, while providing you with the knowledge and skills to contribute ultimately to the resolution of the critical tasks confronting our global community.
Again, welcome to The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University!
Sincerely,
Stephen W. Bosworth, Dean
Gerard F. Sheehan, Executive Associate Dean