Jeff Vanke writes of his TurnItIn.com experience using the Le Beau speech at the History News Network. TurnItIn found both West and Russell borrowings AND turned it in to UMKC who immediately contacted Vanke to ask how he managed to get a copy. Since UMKC has removed the speech from the net. Google cache of course is still good as I explain below in an earlier post. I’m not sure for how much longer though.
But for historical purposes, many of us have kept copies to use in class when we discuss plagiarism.
When I was travelling in Russia with PR Prof Larry Lamb, I would hear him tell classes over and over that the best PR plan is not to duck, hide, or deny. But to own the problem immediately, take proper responsibility, consider the image of your brand in the circumstances and do more than is required, and never to destroy evidence that people have already seen. You only look more guilty.
This just in from the interim chancellor of UMKC:
To: Faculty and Staff of the College of Arts and Sciences
Date: June 17, 2005
Dr. Bryan LeBeau has been placed on administrative leave from his position as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, effective immediately. The administrative leave will continue until December 31, 2005, during which time the University will further explore the allegations. The next chancellor will determine the necessary steps regarding the leadership of the College.
Throughout this administrative leave, Dr. LeBeau will perform the duties of a member of the faculty of the Department of History. Effective July 1, 2005, his salary will be reduced to a 12-month rate of $128,500, commensurate with a senior faculty member in the Department of History. An interim dean will be named within the next week.
I extend my gratitude to the College faculty who have spoken with me during this past week. Our shared commitment to academic integrity and to fairness has kept us on the right course; your dedication to uncompromising ethics of higher education has encouraged all of us during the past few difficult days. I will continue to appreciate your support of the College of Arts and Sciences and UMKC.
It should be noted that the Interim Chancellor is Stephen W. Lehmkuhle.