When I set out to write an article about Columbia’s traditions—the kinds of rituals and myths likely to be associated with an institution with more than 250 years of history—I began by contacting Barnard professor Robert A. McCaughey. McCaughey has written many books on the history of higher education, including one on Columbia. He also teaches a course on the University’s social history. He’s the kind of man who uses phrases like “a different kettle of fish” and “keep truckin’.” He even has a wooden rocking chair in his office.
