Title: Dr. Rita Kirk, Director, Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics & Public Responsibility & Althshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor of Communication Studies

Years at SMU: 23 years

Favorite academic subject outside of your own: They are ALL my own — knowledge belongs to us all. I guess right now I read more in the areas of law, leadership (particularly biographies) and I really enjoy reading Pulitizer Prize winning books (both fiction and nonfiction).

Q: Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw?

A: Definitely Ravenclaw.

Q: What is the best part about the new Residential Commons system?

A: The energy of the students. There is a new dynamic on campus and you can sense that there is lots of life after classes have ended.

Q: What made you want to be a Faculty-in-Residence?

A: Back when I was a parent with a son at home, the house was filled with his friends and their parents. It was a lively, happy place. I miss that. I enjoy the random talks, hearing about new adventures and supporting students through their many successes and occasional failures. Armstrong is a happy place. I am so pleased to be a part of that.

Q: What is your favorite part about living on campus?

A: Walking to work. Since 1991, I have commuted from Colleyville to here. That’s a couple of hours out of every day.

Q: Why is Armstrong the best Commons?

A: The spirit of the Armstrong family that is becoming a part of the Armstrong Commons culture. Anyone who knows the Armstrongs know that they are much more concerned about their guests feeling welcomed and happy than their own momentary pleasure. They take great pride in the success of others. They know how to have a GREAT time and invite others to join them. They are classy. They are caring. They are compassionate. And! There is always laughter.

Q: If you could design a Armstrong motto, what would it be?

A: We have one and I was lucky enough to be a part of that. The motto is Mens Conscia Recti: A Mind Conscious of Integrity. I love it.

Q: How involved are you, as a Faculty-in-Residence, with the students?

A: Generally, students are in love with my dog. He seems to be the gateway to a lot of great conversations. But relationships take time to develop. My relationship with our RAs is fabulous and we are beginning to have affinity groups drop in for events. That will certainly solidify relationships.

Q: What advice would you give to the students living in your Commons?

A: Carpe Diem! Seize the day. Pack as much fun and learning and kindness into each day as it is possible to do.