James Matthew King, Ph.D.

matt's dissertation defense

you heard right! after 10 years of very hard work and admirable dedication, james matthew king has completed his requirements and earned his doctorate in humanities (with a focus in the history of ideas). he defended his dissertation on wednesday, october 8 at 1pm on the UTD campus. he had a huge show of support from his friends and family, including his mom all the way from ohio, who were all there to cheer him on as he gave his 20 minute public presentation. the professors actually said it was the largest turn-out they had ever seen for a defense -- with standing room only! after the presentation, the "public" were asked to leave and the 5 committee members and outside reader were allowed to ask matt questions about his research, dissertation and arguments within his work. around 2:48pm matt was asked to step out for a few minutes while the committee discussed what they had heard from matt, before asking him to step back in so they could congratulate him on passing his defense!
matt passed at the highest level possible, with no revisions! this means that he only has to make sure the formatting is up to UTD's requirements and turn in a last final draft to the university and he's done forever!
later in the evening, we got everyone together again to celebrate matt's accomplishment at macaroni grill. although this would have been a great location anyway, it was especially appropriate since this is where, in crayons, i helped matt first outline his rough draft of the dissertation! yes, we actually still have that section of the "tablecloth!" everyone told matt congrats, including the wait staff and the people at the table next to us. thank you, pat, for a lovely dinner!
and, for those who are curious, even though he has completed the requirements, he will not *technically* have his Ph.D. until december 20, when he has the degree conferred upon him by the university....
but to us, he's already DR. James Matthew King!

i love you, sweetheart!