Anthropology is considered a dirty name in some instances . . .

especially among Native Americans and Native Hawaiians (and other colonized peoples) but here is a good reason why it isn't. The link below is a news story about Richard Ruiz, who just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Richard graduated with a BA in Anthropology from Oregon State University. His wife, Katora, was a McNair Scholar and I was her advisor. I even rented a house from them for a few months after they were sent to Japan. Anyway, they were both very good students, very engaged and it was heart-warming to read this news story, especially about what Richard had to say.

Here's the link:

Richard Ruiz in the Gilroy Dispatch

Good job, Richard! This is why anthropology matters!