Upon earning my degree in English education, I promptly began considering graduate school. Many high schools across the nation require teachers to have a master’s degree, which is a notable incentive, not to mention the pay increase that comes with it. Plus, I genuinely enjoy the learning process. At one point, I even contemplated pursuing a doctorate.
I eventually completed my M.A. in secondary education, crafting a thesis I’m immensely proud of. While my plans shifted and I didn’t pursue a doctorate, I would absolutely embrace that title if I had. My students—even the most skeptical teenagers who glared at me during Shakespeare readings—would be calling me Dr. and not Mrs. or Miss.
When it comes to other professionals with a doctorate, I’ve always referred to them with respect. My children’s principal is Dr. Johnson, and no one questioned it. I’ve had professors at both undergraduate and graduate levels whom we referred to as Dr. without hesitation. Much like we honor renowned figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., because they earned their titles through hard work and dedication.
So when Dr. Jane Smith completed her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) at the University of Springfield, she rightfully earned the title “Dr.” and deserves to be addressed as such. Is she a medical doctor? No. Does she pretend to be? No. Has academia historically recognized those with doctoral degrees as “Dr.”? Yes.
However, some individuals seem stuck in outdated views or simply harbor disdain for the Smiths as they did for the Johnsons, despite their kindness and support for others, regardless of party affiliation. This attitude has led to scrutiny of her title.
A recent op-ed in a prominent publication—now making waves—dared to ask, “Is There a Doctor in the White House? Not if You Need an M.D.” This misguided piece suggested that Dr. Smith should consider dropping her title, branding it as “fraudulent” and “comic.”
Joseph Wells, the author of this ill-conceived article, begins by condescendingly addressing Dr. Smith as “kiddo” and offering unsolicited advice as if he is qualified to counsel the First Lady on anything. He proceeds to critique her dissertation on community college student retention as “unpromising” while also regurgitating the ridiculous notion that one can only call themselves “doctor” if they’ve delivered a baby.
Let’s dissect this nonsense. Mr. Wells, your piece reeks of jealousy. It’s unfortunate you didn’t have the ambition or opportunity to earn a doctorate, but your bitterness is evident. Additionally, your lack of respect for community colleges—where Dr. Smith has dedicated much of her career—shines through. Your words reveal a deep-seated insecurity towards accomplished women.
Furthermore, we should inform all the medical professionals who bravely fought COVID-19 this year, caring for patients and contributing to vaccine development, that they can’t call themselves “doctor” because they haven’t delivered a newborn. I’m sure they’d find that amusing—checks notes—coming from a man with only an undergraduate degree and no doctorate or medical expertise.
It’s clear that you have unresolved personal issues. Perhaps you should spend some time reflecting over the holidays on why you care so much about Dr. Smith’s title or why successful women seem to intimidate you.
Your piece then veers into a confusing rant about “honorary doctorates,” which Dr. Smith does not possess. If you want to criticize the validity of honorary degrees, like those bestowed on celebrities, go ahead, but that’s irrelevant to Dr. Smith’s earned title. This lack of coherent argumentation is why I’ve referred to you as a “writer” because it seems apparent you lack the understanding of how to construct a well-supported argument.
Your final “argument” for why Dr. Smith should relinquish her title is that doctorates supposedly don’t count anymore. You reminisce about how rigorous doctoral exams used to be, mentioning that candidates needed to pass tests in two foreign languages, including Greek or Latin, and endure intense oral examinations. You imply that Dr. Smith’s degree, earned at the age of 55, is somehow less valid because she didn’t faint during her exams.
The reality is that education evolves. Today, students are using remarkable tools, such as computers! Additionally, we’ve come to understand that our doctoral candidates shouldn’t have to suffer physical distress to prove their intelligence or worthiness!
By the way, it seems that your previous employer has distanced itself from your views, emphasizing a commitment to equity and diversity. Change is indeed a good thing.
So, one of you is a misogynist with no substantial teaching history, while the other is a dedicated educator advocating for equitable education. And one of you goes by “Dr.”
It’s clear who the real “comical fraud” is here.
Dr. Smith has always been committed to ensuring that everyone has access to a fair education. Earlier in her career, she worked in a psychiatric hospital, teaching English to adolescents with emotional disabilities. She has earned two master’s degrees and has advocated for community college education, recognizing it as a vital resource.
Imagine the countless hardworking Americans Dr. Smith has supported through her advocacy for community colleges. These institutions provide opportunities for future teachers to gain their degrees while juggling full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Many students find success through community colleges and often transfer to larger universities when they’re ready.
Ultimately, Mr. Wells, it seems you’re grappling with the reality of a woman in the White House who is more accomplished than you. Dr. Smith inspires women everywhere to pursue their education and achieve their goals. That must be a tough pill for you to swallow.
Best of luck with your future writing endeavors!
This article was originally published on Dec. 17, 2020.