James Dissette '71

Major: English

I continue editing The Chestertown Spy online newspaper while enjoying a parallel life as a book designer for national and international clients, along with making limited edition letterpress books at Mad Parrot Press. Since college, most of my work has revolved around establishing publications,  creating corporate graphic design,  marketing, and writing.

Favorite Professors

In the late 60s and early 70s Washington College had an extraordinary English Department, Nancy Tatum, Nick Newlin, Norman James, Bennett Lamond, Bob Neil and Bob Day all offered extraordinary instruction in their particular field. In those days there was much academic/social overlap between students and faculty. A lecture about Faulkner in the classroom migrated easily to the Tavern. Bob Day's creative writing classes and his mission to bring authors to the campus were probably my favorite academic moment.

Fondest WC Memory

Hmm, I probably shouldn't say. It was the 60s.

Let's Hear It for the Liberal Arts

I think the wide spectrum of a liberal arts education offers a baseline of diverse studies that generate agility to flourish in the wider world, no matter the goal.

Advice

Advocate for someone or something other than yourself.