Professor improved academic, social environment

During my brief tenure in Bloomington, I am often inundated with stories of IU's rich academic tradition and socially progressive history. Admittedly, I was convinced much of this reputation was embellished and undue to this institution.\nBut my position is shifted by the remarkable, yet wholly enthralling stories about Dr. James P. Holland. A researcher by training and caring, dedicated mentor by choice, Dr. Holland's altruism to and love for IU students permeates this very campus. \nThe IU family honored his memory with the well-attended inaugural James P. Holland Memorial Lecture Series. Students, administrators, faculty, friends and family lauded his enthusiasm for learning, his commitment to biology and his passion for teaching and interacting with students. The numerous accounts of Dr. Holland's resolve to improve IU's academic and social environment impressed upon me the very honor and tradition I had cynically dismissed. Dr. Holland passed from this life, and I will never have the distinct pleasure and privilege of knowing him personally. \nHowever, in great measure, his life's work of creating knowledge, sharing his wealth of experience with all whom he encountered and genuine concern for others illuminates the honorable endeavors undertaken here at IU. Greater still, I earnestly wish we all would be willing heirs to the priceless treasures of service, honor and dedication he so carefully bequeathed.