Reinstate Gill Giese

Gill Giese, Viticulture Instructor at Surry Community College, has been informed that his employment will terminate in September, 2009, by decision of the SCC President, Dr. Deborah Friedman.

This is an insult and a disservice to Gill Giese as well as all those who have benefited from his knowledge and research of North Carolina viticulture.

Gill Giese has been instrumental in the success of the Surry Community College Viticulture & Enology program. His students benefit from his skill as a researcher, his experience in the field and his generosity of time and knowledge, as well as the strong alliances he has built among the local community. Gill Giese has earned his reputation as a friendly expert whose advice many seek when planning, establishing and maintaining their vineyards. The impact of Gill Giese’s dedication and service to both the academic and commercial communities is broad-reaching, long-lasting and deserves to be protected. He exemplifies the very standards and values President Friedman supports in her President’s Message (see above link).

Termination of Gill Giese’s employment would be a huge disservice to the Viticulture & Enology program of Surry Community College, the community, the larger NC wine industry and certainly to his students.