1952

Who is Julian Robinson and why is he saying those things about the Highway Authority? That is the question next to Julie's photograph on the cover of a recent issue of The Jersey Reporter which contained a feature article about his role in a controversy surrounding the timing of the announcement of an increase in Garden State Parkway's toll. A Jersey City native who returned to his home base after his college and military experiences, Julian held a succession of political appointments in the 1960s, became very active in local Democratic politics, and made an unsuccessful run for mayor of Jersey City under a slogan dreamed up by Dartmouth buddy, Charlie Blakemore, "Let's Be Honest for A Change." Although Julie's primary job since 1970 has revolved around education now the vice president for student services at Jersey State College he has remained a powerful player in Hudson County Democratic circles. In his second term as the only black commissioner in the 36-year history of the Highway Authority where he has often conflicted with other fellow commissioners and openly striven for affirmative action and more representation of blacks and other minorities in the middle and upper management ranks of the Authority he took part in the deliberations which led to a decision to double the parkway's tolls. According to the article, that decision was essentially made by the Authority and approved by the New Jersey governor nearly a year before its announcement last November, a few weeks after the state elections. When the proverbial hit the fan and the other commissioners denied that the announcement delay was politically motivated, Julie broke ranks because he knew that the timing wasn't exactly geared to coincide with Thanksgiving. Although personally part of the timing decisions and comfortable with it at the time, he apparently couldn't participate in the coverup. Needless to say, the aftermath has been difficult for Julian, who seems to have become distanced from his fellow commissioners, and many have searched for his motives. He has denied any interest in running for public office, but remains active in his support for candidates for governor and mayor of Jersey City in 1989. His political friends consider Julian a determined, independent, outspoken, righteous man who speaks up when he sees wrong. Foes consider him a selfish turncoat, a political butterfly who thrives on controversy. No one labels him reticent though. For his part, Julian, whose term runs to 1990, has enjoyed serving the Authority and believes he has made a positive contribution. He is particularly proud of the progress made in affirmative action, largely as a result of his actions and influence. On balance the article is highly complimentary about our classmate.

Bob Callander, president of Chemical Bank, was mentioned in the press recently for his comments about the importance of liberal arts training for those who go on to the highest level of corporate life. "The technical skills are built upon this base. It is this peculiar mix of sciences, math, history, and English that produces a mind capable, in later life, of bringing mature judgment to complex and sometimes great—issues," he says. Shades of G.I. in the late 40s and early 50s! Sorry to have to report that Edward Myers succumbed to cancer in May. Ted's home base had been Houston. He leaves his wife, Lisa, and two children.

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