Carpenter should be lauded

Department of Surgery, McGill

University Health Center.

What does a chemical company do when it loses hundreds of millions of dollars in the courtroom? It uses its considerable resources to undermine the credibility and reputation of scientists. Monsanto Company’s attorneys have accused Dr. David Carpenter of financial irregularities; the University at Albany responded by placing him on administrative leave.

Ironically, UAlbany was actively engaged for decades in financial plans using Carpenter’s consulting fees to support students and staff at the university. The university also knows that Carpenter is exactly as he appears: a brilliant physician who has dedicated his life to fighting environmental pollution through research, teaching and, when appropriate, testifying against polluters.

Disappointingly, instead of owning its role, the university placed Carpenter on an “administrative leave.” The main restriction is being banned from campus, except by invitation of university administration as occurred this January when he accepted an award in person. Monsanto is the clear beneficiary of this leave and has been quick to use it as leverage to discredit Carpenter.

The big losers are the students whose educations have been dramatically impacted and the university, as a whole. Carpenter is truly one of the giants in his field whose shoulders so many stand upon and whose careers have been launched and guided by his caring mentorship. He is recognized by both peers and students alike as a man of absolute moral and ethical integrity and compassion for others who places a premium on honesty and truth. Louise-Anne McNutt

Loudonville