This fall, Professor of Theology Ronald F. Thiemann returned to Harvard Divinity School (HDS) after three semesters of sabbatical and a loss of title. In 1998, Thiemann was forced to resign as dean of HDS after pornography was found on his University-owned computer located in the office of his home, also owned by Harvard.

The images were found by computer technicians servicing Thiemann's computer. Sources told The Crimson that the material did not include child pornography or other illegal matter. Nonetheless, the storage of any pornographic images is a violation of HDS's official policy regarding computer usage, which prohibits storing material that is "inappropriate, obscene, bigoted or abusive" on University computers.

But Thiemann was allowed to retain his tenured professorship, and now, after a year-and-a-half sabbatical, he has returned to Harvard--this time in a purely academic capacity.

Thiemann offered three courses last semester: a seminar on "The Public Intellectual," "Religion and Society Colloquium" and "Colloquium in Technology." Despite the controversy surrounding his departure, students at HDS seem to be taking his return in stride. According to the Registrar's Office, Thiemann's classes have each attracted about seven to nine students, an average enrollment figure for seminars and colloquiums.

Professor Nicholas P. Constas, who teaches in his department, attributed Thiemann's quick assimilation back into University life to his academic talents.

"He's a great teacher, and students know that," he said.

First-year student Jennifer E. Veninga said that she could see why students would be eager to take Thiemann's classes, regardless of his past actions.

"He's a valuable resource and adds unique insight," she said.