By Erica Kitchen, for the YJ
Office 202 in Hill Hall is different from the others. It’s tucked away at the end of the hall among empty rooms. The space isquietly dignified. The aesthetics speak to years of occupation and the imminence of vacancy.
On the door is a nameplate that reads “Dr. Timothy Alderman.”
Dr. Alderman, a professor of English, has a long history in higher education. He’s taught at Akron University and Ohio State before coming back to Charleston where he was raised.
His shelves are packed with books despite efforts to clear them. Each section is labelled with classes he’s taught. He sits at a large, elegant desk stacked high with graded papers and sips from a glass of cola as he speaks.
Alderman announced his retirement at the English department luncheon in April. His career at State spans 32 years.
Alderman attended Ducane University for his undergraduatedegree. At Purdue University, he earned a PhD in English with a special focus on Modern American and British. It was during his time as a graduate student that he became interested in cooking.
“I wanted to make dinner for some friends, even though it was simple,” Alderman said. That attitude has extended into his teaching career. Students know him as the professor who brings desserts on the first day of class. Brownies, cookies and even cake. He makes quiche and egg rolls for the luncheon each semester. They have become famous and are requested by his students every time.
Alderman also does theater as an assistant director, prop manager or an actor. He’s worked with several troupes like the Charleston Stage Company and the Kanawha Players. “I don’t know how I got into it,” the thespian said. “The first play that I did, I found it interesting. The Royal Hunt of the Sun. That kind of meta-theater is interesting.”
His career in stage coincides with his teaching career. “People would make fun of me for grading papers backstage,” the English professor said. He’s participated in the productions of Hairspray, Little Shop of Horrors and The Good Woman of Setzuan on campus. He says he regrets not being able to teach more drama courses.
Alderman’s retirement plans include seeing the world. “I definitely want to travel more,” the retiree said.
He’s been to eight countries over his lifetime including Egypt, Italy, Prague, Spain, and Puerto Rico where he has family. In his office, there is a picture of him in Egypt standing beside a camel. He’s seen a lot of the world, and he wants to see more.
As his time at State draws to an end, he admits there are things he will miss. “Good days, good classes, good students,” Alderman said with sincerity. Behind his glasses, his eyes are soft and faraway.
Students of Alderman’s have expressed surprise at the announcement but wish him the best. The announcement brought a wistfulness to the luncheon.
Right outside the luncheon are piles of books that are free to take. They’ve left vacancies on the shelves of Office 202, and they’re the last gifts students of State will receive from Dr. Alderman.
