Of the responses to Sunday's news that University President Teresa A. Sullivan would step down Aug. 15, the parody Twitter account @RectorDrago ranks among the most viral. The account critiques University Rector Helen Dragas, who as leader of the Board of Visitors announced Sullivan's departure. The account has nearly 200 followers after it went live about 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.
The creator of @RectorDrago said he was a middle-aged University alumnus who still lives in Virginia. He communicated with The Cavalier Daily using Twitter's Direct Message feature to share the story behind the satire.
The Cavalier Daily: What inspired you to create the account?
@RectorDrago: Satire is the weapon of the powerless. Which in this case is everyone in the U.Va. community except the Board of Visitors.
CD: Do you think this account has been effective in raising awareness about the Board of Visitor's handling of Pres. Sullivan's resignation?
@RD: I think it has been a good outlet for people upset about the decision. It's a childish account, but the BOV is treating us like children.
CD: What sort of feedback have you received about this account?
@RD: It's been positive so far. People seem to think it's funny and keep retweeting me.
CD: How long do you plan to keep Tweeting as @RectorDrago?
@RD: I'll keep it up until we get a satisfactory answer as to why President Sullivan was pushed out.
CD: Were you surprised by the large number of followers you've accrued?
@RD: I'm happy with the number of followers so far. It hasn't quite gone viral yet.
CD: Have you had any contact with another notable parody account, @TeresaASullivan?
@RD: Haven't heard from her, but if she wants to retweet I'd be appreciative.
CD: What do you think Twitter's role in future activism is?
@RD: I think Twitter is a very good way to communicate directly with the media and those in power. Whether they listen is another question.
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