TULANE TALK

December 14, 2012

Good Morning:

Stumped for gift ideas? I thought I would share some of the items at the top of my shopping list. One or two of these are sure to bring a smile to your loved ones, as I am hoping they will do for mine.

First, I don’t think you can go wrong with giving a season or two of the award-winning PBS series “Downton Abbey.” I really enjoy this show. It is a true masterpiece.

Speaking of masterpieces, a Bruce Springsteen CD can please a friend or family member from any generation. One of this year’s highlights for me was seeing The Boss at Jazz Fest. He brings me back to my Jersey roots and nourishes my soul.

My two favorite books this year were Team of Rivals and The Warmth of Other Suns. Normally, I would recommend them as great stocking stuffers, but for these classics you will need very big and sturdy stockings.

Of course, anything with Tulane on it makes a great gift. I also like other New Orleans-centric gifts. Sally Asher, one of our university photographers, captured a great New Orleans moment, a road sign at the intersection of “New Orleans” and “Hope” streets. Her photo of this wonderful juxtaposition and sentiment hangs on my office wall. Supporting local artists in your gift-buying is a great way to celebrate the season.

My favorite all-time gifts are the Staff Excellence Awards, which I have the honor of bestowing on the top university staff members each year.

I am making my list and checking it twice for the best of the best among our staff…I may be paying a visit to your office soon.

Have a great weekend,