Leslie Brewer, College of the Atlantic (COA) co-founder, discusses the early days of College of the Atlantic and the recruitment of its first president, Ed Kaelber. The conversation touches on the recruitment process, the development of the idea of Human Ecology, and the qualities that made Ed Kaelber a good fit for the institution. Brewer talks about the unique combination of individuals involved in launching a college without a business-oriented approach, and the efforts to secure the campus location on Mount Desert Island. He emphasizes the collaborative effort of board members, faculty, staff, and students in shaping COA.