Ed Ayers - Teachers Make a Difference - Richard Marius

The speaker reflects on their journey from East Tennessee to becoming a professor, inspired by Richard Marius, a passionate teacher at the University of Tennessee. Marius' influence was profound, shaping the speaker's writing and teaching philosophy. Marius, known for his advocacy and writing, left a lasting impact by embodying passion and purpose. The speaker emphasizes that a teacher's greatest impact often comes from who they are rather than the information they convey.

What was the narrator's initial career aspiration before meeting Richard Marius?

• Doctor

• Journalist

• Lawyer

• Engineer

What writing advice did Richard Marius give to the narrator?

• Avoid editing your work

• Write as much as possible

• Focus on clarity and simplicity

• Use complex words to impress

How did Richard Marius contribute to the student newspaper?

• By organizing charity events

• By promoting campus parties

• By advocating against the Vietnam War

• By writing about sports events

What role did Richard Marius eventually hold at Harvard University?

• Chair of the History Department

• Head of the Expository Writing Program

• Dean of Students

• Director of Admissions

According to the narrator, what is often a teacher's greatest impact?

• The information they convey

• The grades they give

• The character and passion they embody

• The assignments they create