On a more somber note...

A quick glance at the Louisville Cardinal, my old campus newspaper, revealed that Dr. Paul Weber, my Political Science professor at this time last year, had passed away.

When I took Political Discourse in the fall of last year, Weber revealed that he had prostrate cancer. As a result of his treatments, he had to occasionally miss class; but the fact that he taught at all showed his devotion to students. As a lecturer, Weber was brilliant (his knowledge far superceded the nature of the class I took); as an individual, he was caring and compassionate. His devotion to U of L was evident in his support for the McConnell Scholars program, which is a hallmark of the university.

Weber's thoughts on separation of church and state are among the most lucid and "accurate" ideas that are presented today. His thorough analysis of the definition of this separation is among the more complete perspectives of a concept that has come to the forefront of our country's policy. His objectivity is also admirable; Weber was devout in his faith.

Weber's ability to teach and his contributions to political science made him an invaluable facet to Louisville's reputation, while his charisma put a good face on not only his department, but the entire university. He will be missed.

Paul Weber was 67.