CHEERS to Fairfield University’s response to Hurricane Katrina. The fostering of 49 students from Loyola College New Orleans and Tulane University a clear and measured sacrifice on the part of the university communicty to assist those affected by the worst natural disaster in American history.
Commendably, the already bed-starved Department of Residence Life offered to stretch its limited resources and find homes in the dorms for 16 of these students. Also laudable is the student body’s warm reception of the new residents and commuter students, more of whom begin classes at Fairfield each day.
In additon, Campus Ministry has spearheaded the university’s contribution to the disaster relief, organizing supply drives and fundraisers for victims in the gulf region.
All of these actions serve to uphold the missions and values of any Jesuit university. They instill a sense of pride in our student community for our ability to welcome those who are in need. For this, we should all celebrate.
BOOS to the 23 members of the student body, and especially freshmen, who have had to make alcohol-related trips to the health center and St. Vincent’s hospital during the first two weeks of school.
College is without question a time of increased independence, but this freedom is not to be taken lightly and comes with a great deal of responsibility. While the number of incidents is about average at this point in the year, this does not absolve these students-and their fellow partiers-of responsibility for themselves and their friends.
As we progress further into the school year, we must remember to be accountable for our actions and keep in mind not only the safety of ourselves and those around us, but also the true purpose of our presence at Fairfield University.
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