We, the undersigned, write to express in the most strenuous terms the University\'s decision to deny Norman Cowie tenure. The decision is unqualifiedly wrong. As his students and former students, we can tell you that Norman is one of the best teachers and mentors we\'ve ever encountered. As his colleagues, we can tell you that Norman\'s dedication to the University is exemplary. As scholars, we can tell you that Norman\'s work is on the cutting edge of videomaking nationally and internationally. As artists, we can tell you that Norman is a highly respected member of the video art community. Criticism of his work is clearly uninformed and unfamiliar with the field. The University\'s decision is a public embarrassment and a loss to us all.