“You can’t love vaginas, if you don’t like hair!” shouted Sophomore Emily Sanders, performing the piece “Hair“ at the Vagina Monologues last night.

The Alumni Hall was packed for the first night of Even Ensler’s the Vagina Monologues, performed by 37 McDaniel students and even one professor.  The Monologues put aside controversy and embraced the power of having a vagina to raise money for Rape Crisis Intervention Services of Carroll County, Family and Children’s Services of Central Maryland, and women and girls affected by the earthquake in Haiti.

The Vagina Monologues were created in 1996 by Eve Ensler with the objective of empowering women and individuality as a whole.  Since its first performance, it has raised over $75 million for women’s anti-violence groups.

“I think tonight went fantastic!” said senior Nathan Wuertenberg who co-directed the performance with senior Lauren Hamby.  “The cast was energetic and amazing.  They inspire me.”

The first performance was received with a standing ovation by the audience.

Senior Stefon Kelly loved it, saying, “It was a lot of vaginas and a lot of fun!”

Tickets are $7 for students and $10 for everyone else.  Come and see McDaniel’s very own perform for a good cause this Saturday night!

The new Kenneth R. Gill Stadium, which will replace the existing Scott Bair Stadium, “will provide first class seating that showcases the academic ridgeline of our campus,” according to Mr. Martin K. P. Hill, Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Hill reported in his remarks at the ceremony that the stadium committee has raised over $7.7 million in gifts and pledges toward the construction of the new stadium.  $2.25 million of that total came from a donation given by the committee’s leader, Mr. Kenneth R. Gill.

According to Mr. Hill, the new stadium had been a part of the Board of Trustees’ campus master plan, approved in 2003.

Nearly a decade later, on the windy, sun-splashed afternoon of February 3, the plan moved one step closer to reality.

At the ceremony, Dr. Casey remarked, “today’s event is the culmination of much teamwork and much visionary leadership from my predecessor, Dr. Joan Develin Coley,” and called the new stadium’s construction a “high point” for the College.

In his speech, Mr. Gill, who graduated from Western Maryland College in 1961, spoke of friendships he made at the college that lasted a lifetime.  Mr. Gill said “wherever my life has taken me, no place feels as close to my heart as this college.  Whether you call it Western Maryland College, McDaniel College, or simply The Hill, I have benefitted from the lessons learned from the faculty, the coaches, and my classmates.”

“Today, I feel grateful to give back to them.”

Construction on the new Kenneth R. Gill Stadium is scheduled to be completed by next football season.

For more details on the stadium project, here is an article from November that outlines the financial aspects and design of the stadium.

The feeling around campus is bitter-sweet—left with many fond memories of the sweat drenched football icons Ray Lewis and Ed Reed battling to prepare their team for upcoming football seasons.

The student forum held on Nov. 15, attended by a small group of faculty, administrators, and students, provided a glimpse into the faculty’s mindset on what changes could come to the Honor Code and why they are necessary.  Dr. Kate Dobson of the English department said that the faculty panel is focusing on the role that professors have in the Honor System, as well as the manner in which cases involving violations of the Code are heard.  Dr. Dobson specifically discussed the need to update parts of the Honor Code about the use of electronic sources, such as regulating the use of smart phones during exams, and generally spoke of creating a “culture of academic honor” at McDaniel College.

The college’s provost, Dr. Thomas Falkner, further emphasized the need to review educating students about the use of electronics in academic work, saying that the college needs to spend much more time “raising the consciousness” of how students use electronic sources.  The administrators present at the meeting stated that there are between six and 12 Honor Code cases each semester, and Dr. Falkner told the forum that almost all of them involve some sort of electronic source, mostly plagiarizing from the Internet or cheating using a smart phone.

Students, in the discussion led by school president Dr. Roger Casey, were also opinionated about the role the Honor Code plays in academic life.  Some students raised the idea that there must be a separation between how cases of incidental and purposeful plagiarism are punished, and that First Year Seminar courses, where the Code is supposed to be taught to incoming students, are not consistent in how they educate incoming students about it.

The administrators became aware of a further problem after they learned that transfer students do not receive the same education of the code because they do not take a First Year Seminar course.  The other major problem with the Honor Code that was discussed involved the accessibility of its contents beyond the Honor Pledge displayed in every classroom.  Like many other school documents, the specific details of the Code are no longer printed and are only found on a on the school website.

After the meeting, Dean of Student Affairs Beth Gerl said “there needs to be a very thorough review of the Honor Code” and that, from what she had heard in the forum, “it needs to be updated.”

Although there appears to be a consensus that the Honor Code needs to be altered, no timetable has been given for when any changes would be announced or implemented.

McDaniel College will no longer be home to the Baltimore Ravens training camp. Photo by Lisa Vasapollo.

The Baltimore Ravens announced today that they will not hold their training camp at McDaniel College next summer.  The Ravens have instead decided to hold 2012′s training camp at the team facility in Owings Mills next year.

In a press release on the team’s website, Ravens President Dick Cass said, “We’ve had long, serious discussions about this decision, and, when all is said and done, we believe we can better prepare for the season by holding training camp [in Owings Mills] as opposed to McDaniel College or any other facility away from here.  We wanted to let the officials at McDaniel and at the hotel (Best Western) know as soon as we made the decision.”

Cass also said, “We owe much thanks to the leadership at McDaniel for their patience as we came to this decision and for all the outstanding help they have given the Ravens through the years. They have been a great partner, often going out of their way to make sure we could prepare our team at a high, high level.”

The move, according to the release, was recommended by Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome, because of new restrictions on practices caused by the NFL’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement, as well as the existence of indoor practice facilities at the team’s headquarters in Owings Mills.

McDaniel had been the home of the Ravens’ summer practices since the team’s arrival in Baltimore in 1996.  Training camp in Westminster was moved to Owings Mills this summer because of time constraints put on the team by the NFL lockout.

In a statement, McDaniel College said “We’ve had a wonderful association with the Ravens at McDaniel, and appreciate their commitment to the college and to Westminster. We respect
the decision of the Ravens organization, and are ready to welcome them back to McDaniel College if, and when, they decide to return their training camp here.”

This is a developing story. More information will be posted.

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The renovations on Bair Stadium—expected to finish by the 2012 football season—will be a proud accomplishment for not just the faculty involved, but the alumni of McDaniel College as well. The funding for the projected 9.5 million dollar budget was the first capital project provided completely by gifts and donations.

For many years, Bair Stadium just didn’t fit with the campus aesthetically. The Board of Trustees (along with the Institutional Advancement Division) made a decision six years ago to start a Stadium Committee to oversee all aspects of the future renovations. The decision, many believed, would complete the campus equation by building a stadium that would meet students’ expectations.

Ken Gill became the chair of the committee along with Director of Special Projects Lee Primm as faculty advisor, Vice President of Economics and Business Ethan Seidel, and a few trustee members. As part of a more comprehensive objective, the committee looked on the future of the stadium renovations as a recruiting tool for future students.

“I was asked to head up this project and had previously played football for Western Maryland College from 1957 to 1960,” said Ken Gill. “I really valued my college education. I felt like this was a wonderful way to say thank you to McDaniel. We previously had the worst stadium complex despite our popular tailgating. It was hurting recruiting because it was not a very attractive building.”

The first few years progressed slowly as the committee extensively discussed the changes that would be made and how much money would be used. It was very important to renovate the stadium in a way that would be similar to the campus’ current architecture.

Because many current McDaniel athletes said they loved the charge down the hill from Gill Gym, the committee decided to keep the locker rooms in Gill and just build team rooms in the stadium bottom floor. A new access road will also be built to ease transportation.

The bottom floor is dedicated to sports staff like the officials, visiting team and coaches. The second floor will contain hospitality rooms as well as catering, the president’s box and rooms for radio, television and press. The top floor will contain an overhang that will protect film crews during each game. Any money left over in the budget will go towards expanding the Gill Gym locker rooms.

In order to fund the project, the committee laid out an effective plan to ask alumni for gifts. Because of the recent recession, the renovations had to be paid for only through philanthropic donations.

The stadium committee interviewed countless alumni who were football players, lacrosse, etc. They also pursued leadership groups like team captains, eventually focusing on around seven networking groups. Two popular ones, for example, were the mid-‘50s and ‘60s athletes. Finally, committee members made personal contact with each and approached the situation pragmatically, often receiving generous gifts in return.

“It was wonderful. The responses were very positive. There were a wide variety of personalities and attitudes, giving us an opportunity to bring back alumni who felt alienated,” reported Primm.

Alumni participation is usually very low compared to many other colleges, so the countless gifts responsible for the stadium renovations can be considered a huge achievement. However there is always a better way to look at things.

“I think there is a misinterpretation of the generosity of alumni,” said Seidel. “There is a lot of it but it isn’t widespread over a large percentage. There is a low participation only in the Annual Fund which is the Operating Budget. But when it comes to big projects, the alumni are always generous.”

Some of the largest gifts from alumni ranged from 1.5 to two million dollars.

Currently the stadium committee is waiting to receive the detailed architectural specifications. Previously, contractors were hired to look at the floor plans and confirm that seven months as an estimated time for construction was reasonable. The committee expects to start in January.

After the stadium committee receives the spec drawings, the renovations will enter the bidding phase where numerous construction companies will make bids on the project. “It usually takes a couple of weeks to build a bidding strategy,” said Seidel. “They have to make sure they bid high enough that they will profit and low enough so as not to lose the job at the same time.”

Although the renovations for GLAR ran into numerous delays due to last minute architectural changes, the stadium project is expected to finish on time (unless “Snowmaggedon” recurs) because many years were dedicated to the designs. The construction will only affect Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse.

Many might fear the new stadium construction might impede the McDaniel College tailgating experience, but they can rest assured that the new building will still allow fans to pull up their cars and set up tents all along the outer rim as is the tradition.

Of the stadium, Gill said, “I believe it will be one of the most state-of-the-art stadium designs. It is rewarding to get the job done.”

The goal of Campus 411 is for students and administrators to discuss hot topics on the Hill in a setting conducive to making a difference on campus. Students can voice their concerns about campus issues, with the hope of leading to productive changes.

All students are welcome to attend and share ideas. Not only will the President and Vice President of Student Affairs be present at all meetings, but also the Dean of Students, to listen to the students and eliminate misconceptions or misunderstanding about the school.

“The Campus 411 was formed from a need to better communicate with students, receive feedback, and to make informed decisions how students will be affected by various issues in the campus community,” said Christine Workman, the Director of Student Engagement.

Campus 411 takes place in the Decker Forum in the Decker College Center once a month from 12-1 pm. Students can grab a bag lunch in Glar and bring it to the discussion. Generally, the format of Campus 411 is question and answer after the presentation of that month’s topic. So far, the topics they have covered include Internet and Information Technology and Smoking on Campus.

“Not only should students get involved with the forums, but they need to. This is our campus and we need to make it our own. The only way to make it our own is to understand the campus and to relay, to the McDaniel administration, staff, and faculty, the changes we would like to see and our reasonings behind those changes,” said SGA President Rula Zaru.

Students can suggest monthly topics and submit questions to thecampus411@mcdaniel.edu. The next Campus 411 meeting will be Tuesday, November 15.

With opportunities like this, students can be more proactive towards getting a satisfactory experience than ever before here at McDaniel.

At the meeting an issue arose.

The words ‘liberal arts’ were omitted from the draft of the new McDaniel mission statement— a cause for much concern with faculty.

One concerned McDaniel faculty member wondered, “Are we offering a true liberal arts education… how important is it?”

As of now the liberal arts identity is one that McDaniel College holds true to. The mission reads, “Our mission is you (the student)… Centered in the liberal arts and sciences, McDaniel education teaches you to think and act critically, creatively, and humanely.”

Robert Kachur, English Chair and one of five faculty members selected to be on the ‘strategic thinking board’ who head the crafting of the new mission statement said, “many teachers were alarmed at the fact that we left out the words ‘liberal arts,’ but it is just a draft at this point and we will take their concerns into consideration at the next meeting.”

The mission statement is under close review by the Middle States Association of Colleges—an organization that internally reviews public appearance of its institution (one of which being McDaniel) via peer evaluation.

Becky Carpenter, English Professor at McDaniel, said she found the absence of the “liberal arts” phrase troubling.

“We professors think liberal arts is a good method of teaching, thinking and learning, so why not advertise what we do in our mission statement,” said Carpenter.

Carpenter emphasized that there is no reason to be stealthy about the fact that McDaniel is a liberal arts college, and that incoming students need to know what type of education they will be getting here on The Hill.

Once of the reasons that McDaniel professors and the administration are taking this issue so seriously is that our mission statement is vital in representing what our institution has to offer, “We are working toward a more concise mission statement that really embodies McDaniel,” said Kachur.

Both Kachur and Carpenter weighed in on the implications behind the controversy causing phrase ‘liberal arts’ explaining that McDaniel has both humanity and professional  means of education, but that the more professionally directed classes tended to be for graduate students and that the liberal arts and sciences education is directed more towards undergraduate students.

Kachur justified the extremely close consideration that the board is taking over this issue saying, “this mission statement really has the power to completely change the direction of our school.”

“I think the renovations made to Glar last semester initiated things,” said Harriet Corbran of the Bursar’s Office. “The idea [behind the new Meal Exchanges] was to give students more choices, and I think that we’ve done that. I’ve also heard some students say that the quality of the food has improved.”

For freshmen, however, there is one restriction: they can’t go any lower than a 210 Meal Plan. “We felt that a 210 Meal Plan—offering an average of 14 meals per week— would keep freshmen healthy and nourished,” said Corbran, “It’s also a more equitable choice.Re-charging students for another plan offering fewer meals would be more expensive for them than just the initial 210.”

With new Meal Exchanges, it will be easier for students to get their money’s worth of food from their Meal Plans for the semester without forfeiting any unused funds. The pub will also soon begin accepting credit cards due to high demand from students. Meal Exchanges will also be made available in the new café in the library upon its completion.

The Gerontology Club is hosting a Walk to End Alzheimer’s for the third year in a row in hopes of changing that fact.

On Oct. 22, members of the McDaniel Community will be raising money for the Greater Maryland Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Last year, we raised 1,200 dollars,” said Madeline Jackowski.  “This year’s goal isn’t a set amount.  We just hope to beat the amount of money we have made so far in hosting the walk.”

Registration for the walk will begin at 8 AM in Red Square, and the walk will begin at 9. Participants will have the option of walking a predetermined course around campus or walking laps around the track.

“There will be food and beverages provided, prizes for teams raising the most money, and raffle items,” said Jackowski.

For more information about the event, email Lindsay Waqar (lnw002).

This 90-minute course measures include sections about perceptions of drinking, individual behaviors when drinking, and the dangers of drinking too much alcohol. It is offered by Millenium Classrooms.

“Because we were already working with the company, it was easy to implement,” explained Dean Elizabeth Towle, Associate Dean of Student Affairs.

She worked with the First Year Team to coordinate the implementation of the program, which she says is intended to raise students’ awareness about college policy and how choosing to drink alcohol can have both short-term and long-term effects.

“When a student makes the adult choice to consume alcohol, they need to be willing to accept the adult consequences of that choice,” said Dean Towle.

The course includes information customized to McDaniel College, including resource information about the Wellness Center and Campus Safety.

The course measures changes in perceptions about alcohol and also about alcohol use, but results will not be available for a few weeks.

Student response to the program has been great so far, according to Dean Towle. However, some students think that the information presented was superfluous.

“It was very boring and it was full of information I’d already learned,” said freshman Wykeema Stanley, who then cited at least three alcohol education experiences before becoming an undergraduate student.

Sophomore Olivia Gardner, who echoed this sentiment, said, “Probably the people who need it most are those who are less likely to take it seriously.”

Information about the results of the program will be available in the December print issue of the McDaniel Free Press.

“Ira was a fundamental figure in the history of the college” said Dr. Greg Alles about the former professor. “[The college] valued his soul and spirit and wants to preserve his legacy.”

The lecturer set to the task of preserving the legacy of Zepp’s passion for peace and social justice this year was Father Roy Bourgeois. Father Roy, head of the “School of the Americas Watch,” gave a lecture titled “The Struggle for Justice in Latin America.” In his lecture, he recounted past and current experiences working to try and close the School of the Americas in Latin America that is a US-funded training ground that teaches Latin American men the techniques employed by the US military in battle.

Father Roy’s speech also addressed an issue he is facing within the Catholic Church regarding the ordination of women into the priesthood and the repercussions he is dealing with for participating in a ceremony in which a woman was ordained as a priest. Though Father Roy is now facing the reality of possibly being excommunicated from his church because he participated in such a ceremony, he said that he could “not go against [his] own conscience.” He has decided that he is ready to accept his excommunication from the Catholic Church if the church decides to do so, but that he himself believes in equal rights for women.

The choice of Father Roy Bourgeois was well made by the Ira G. Zepp, Jr. Memorial Lectureship. Father Roy Bourgeois whole heartedly embodied the spirit of Ira G. Zepp, Jr. through his many applications of peace making and his deep passion for social justice throughout the world. The Ira G. Zepp, Jr. Memorial Lecture by Father Roy was a great way to begin what is sure to be a long history of lectures on peace and social justice honoring one of McDaniel’s finest faculty members and community leaders.

Eddie Blankenship, Nick Galinaitis, and Wesley Weicht are at the head of this new fraternity and are working hard to drum up interest in the male population at the school. In order to become a colony through the Inter Fraternity Council they need ten members who are willing to join, and then new members per class in the next four semesters to become a chapter.

Blankenship described the decision to form this fraternity as the desire for “a fraternity that was more accepting to gay and bisexual members because the LGBT community does not have a great history with Greek life.” While he says that the fraternities on campus are very open minded, on a national scale he felt this would be a good fraternity to have represented. Blankenship brought Weicht on board in the process, and he has been very active in advertising, educating, and promoting.

Blankenship never expected to be an advocate for the LGBT community or involved in Greek Life, but he feels that this is a good step because this fraternity is about the fact that the sexual orientation of the members does not affect their status as brothers. This is his goal for humanity as a whole as well.

Delta Lambda Phi is going to be a social fraternity, but Blankenship also hopes to get them involved in community service for different causes – including some with an LGBT basis to support the background of the club. Some of the causes he mentioned as possible community service ideas were fundraising for HIV Awareness, Day of Silence, and PRIDE.

Both founders are worried the group will be stereotyped as the gay fraternity, but they hope they will be able to break the stereotypes – not only about the fraternity but about the LGBT community as well. Weicht had a lot of mixed feelings about Greek life, but some of his reservations are appeased by his role in starting Delta Lambda Phi. He stated, “I had spoken out against Greek life, so for me to be starting one should attest to how much it means to me and how much it should mean to people in general.”

There is a lot of excitement about the new fraternity here on campus from the faculty, although the word has not spread long and far enough. Director of the Office of Student Engagement Christine Workman informed me that all of the current fraternities on campus are excited to welcome the new group to their ranks. Mahlia Joyce, of Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, stated her own eagerness for the new group because of it offers a unique opportunity for diversity here on campus.

The founders were looking into other groups, but they decided this group was the best fit for the people here at McDaniel.

Blankenship described a progressive man as any man who is open-minded about sexuality – their own individual sexuality is irrelevant and they do not care what the sexuality of their brothers may be. Right now, one main concern for the group is getting men to attend interest meetings and learn about the fraternity so they can find the last few members for their first class and get their colonization from the national level as soon as possible.

Weicht said that one of his concerns is “trying to convince the straight population that joining this would not be a label maker.” He explained that the purpose of the group is to raise awareness about rights and other aspects of the LGBT community, and not about an individual’s sexual orientation.

Advertising is difficult because national standards require very specific advertising. They are not a formal fraternity yet, and bureaucracy can be a long process to tread.

A large number of people are not aware of this group’s formation. Many of those who are aware of the group were freshmen men who were already looking into the fraternity scene.

There is also a group, headed by Sara Miller, that is working to start a sorority with a similar goal- Gamma Rho Lambda- in the near future, but it is in the very early stages.

The group has decided on Gamma Rho Lambda because, as Sarah stated, “I like that Gamma Rho Lambda has the potential to be a home for girls that maybe felt out-of-place in traditional Greek life. While I respect the existing sororities on campus, I think GRL will offer something a little different.”

When asked his thoughts about it, Weicht stated, “I am completely thrilled about it, I am all for it, I think it is one of the best things ever.”

So in closing, if you are a man and looking for a fraternity, be on the lookout for this new group to start sprouting up around campus – and women, your chance may not be far behind.

The SGA finance committee, composed of the Treasurer and select SGA senators and other individuals who are interested in allocations, comes together in late spring each year to filter all of the requests from various student organizations. These requests are in the form of an allocations application, which is available on the Student Intranet and asks from an organization its current financial standing, its reasons for asking for money, how the organization helps the community, how the organization will fundraise throughout the year, and the specific invoices/contracts/copyrights/etc. needed to justify the exact cost of holding events/activities/fundraisers. During the committee meetings, the SGA filters out applications that are incomplete or do not have sufficient information regarding how the organization came up with the exact cost for an event or activity. We then contact the leaders of these organizations so they can fix the present issues. The remaining applications, after review, are entered into an excel spreadsheet and the organizations are given all the money they requested, given they have not requested money for: charity donations, food at organizational meetings, advertisements, travel for less than 30 students, or fundraising events costing more than $250. Thus, we provide a first-come, first-serve basis for funding on- and off-campus events and group activities sponsored by student organizations.

It is important to note that once the deadline for allocations has passed, we do accept allocation requests, but they will not be merited until the beginning of the academic year, and the amount of money we choose to allocate depends on the remaining budget following allocation to organizations that requested money at or before the deadline. The allocation requests we prefer to give money to once the academic year has started are those that are called “co-sponsorships,” which are defined as events or activities sponsored by more than one student organization. We understand the difficulty in getting multiple organizations to cooperate toward one group event or activity, which is why we are likely to fund co-sponsored events even if they occur during the academic year in which they are requested. We still accept single organization requests, but they are less likely to receive funds, since the remaining are more likely reserved for co-sponsorships.

Why do some clubs get more money than others?

Certain clubs get more money than others because they requested it when allocations are due, the spring of the previous academic year to when the activities using the funds are expected to occur. With a beginning annual budget of around $37,000, we do not decline requests regardless of the cost unless they are specifically against our rules, or if money becomes too scarce to allocate to all of the requesting organizations. Thus, we do not discriminate against a request simply because of its cost.

Where does your funding for allocations come from?

Our funds available for allocations come to us from the initial college budget process. This is the same way that individual departments (like OSE, ODMA, etc.) receive money. Christine Workman handles all of our fund transfers to student organizations.

How much funding does SGA receive to operate?

While the budget can change annually, we generally receive around $37,000 to fund organizations’ events and activities as well as fund our own activities.

How can members’ organizations, or any student, for that matter be involved in SGA decision making processes?

The SGA holds open meetings every other Tuesday at 9 p.m. in the Leidy Room starting October 11th, and we expect that organizations who have received or would like to receive funding send a representative to each of these meetings so they can voice their concerns about their allocations or their organizations themselves as well as communicate with other organizations about working together to create change on or off the campus. Any student who wishes to come to the meetings and voice his or her opinions about how our campus can be improved is certainly welcome, although Academic Affairs does hold 411 Forums to allow for these types of complaints or opinions to be expressed and answered. Our meetings tend to focus on inter-organizational communication, but the ultimate goal is to make the McDaniel campus more fun and get students out of their rooms to enjoy what’s around them!

What is SGA planning to do this year/what are your major goals besides allocations? Anything new?

Our major goals for this year are: become a more visible leadership entity on the McDaniel campus, facilitate transparent student organizational allocations, and facilitate better communication among the student body. In order to facilitate the SGA being a more visible leadership organization on campus, the Office of Student Engagement is launching an online system called OrgSync, which allows all student organizations to communicate with each other by e-mail, text, and phone while also combining group calendars to display all organization-run campus events in one concise calendar, thereby allowing all groups (Greek life included) to cooperate when planning events and be able to more efficiently communicate.

When are your next meetings open to the public?

We will hold open meetings starting Tuesday October 11th, 2011 at 9 P.M., and they will occur every two weeks from then through Winter Break. They will begin again the following semester every other Tuesday evening.

Who should go to SGA meetings?

Any individual who is a student or faculty member (or Alum) on the McDaniel College campus is invited to attend out meetings. Organizations that receive funding or expect to receive funding are highly recommended to represent themselves at each open meeting.

Why is transparency important to SGA?

The SGA believes in transparent allocations because we want the entire student body to see that anybody can receive funding to contribute an event, activity, or idea itself to maintain a closely-knit McDaniel community. Obviously money is not the answer to all ideas coming to fruition to better the campus, but with respect to allocations, we want everybody to be able to be involved in making our campus more fun!

Can organizations receive money during the school year if something comes up? How?

As stated previously, any organization is welcome to submit an allocation application during the school year as well as during the summer, but it must be understood that funding may not be given due to budget limitations. Co-sponsorships are more likely to be funded by the SGA once the academic year has commenced.

Are you wondering where SGA’s allocations went to? Then check out below to see a breakdown of their allocation results for fall 2011

A Q&A With Jason Stein: SGA Treasurer

What process is used to determine allocations? How do clubs request money and what requests are granted?

 The SGA finance committee, composed of the Treasurer and select SGA senators and other individuals who are interested in allocations, comes together in late spring each year to filter all of the requests from various student organizations. These requests are in the form of an allocations application, which is available on the Student Intranet and asks from an organization its current financial standing, its reasons for asking for money, how the organization helps the community, how the organization will fundraise throughout the year, and the specific invoices/contracts/copyrights/etc. needed to justify the exact cost of holding events/activities/fundraisers. During the committee meetings, the SGA filters out applications that are incomplete or do not have sufficient information regarding how the organization came up with the exact cost for an event or activity. We then contact the leaders of these organizations so they can fix the present issues. The remaining applications, after review, are entered into an excel spreadsheet and the organizations are given all the money they requested, given they have not requested money for: charity donations, food at organizational meetings, advertisements, travel for less than 30 students, or fundraising events costing more than $250. Thus, we provide a first-come, first-serve basis for funding on- and off-campus events and group activities sponsored by student organizations.

It is important to note that once the deadline for allocations has passed, we do accept allocation requests, but they will not be merited until the beginning of the academic year, and the amount of money we choose to allocate depends on the remaining budget following allocation to organizations that requested money at or before the deadline. The allocation requests we prefer to give money to once the academic year has started are those that are called “co-sponsorships,” which are defined as events or activities sponsored by more than one student organization. We understand the difficulty in getting multiple organizations to cooperate toward one group event or activity, which is why we are likely to fund co-sponsored events even if they occur during the academic year in which they are requested. We still accept single organization requests, but they are less likely to receive funds, since the remaining are more likely reserved for co-sponsorships.

Why do some clubs get more money than others?

            Certain clubs get more money than others because they requested it when allocations are due, the spring of the previous academic year to when the activities using the funds are expected to occur. With a beginning annual budget of around $37,000, we do not decline requests regardless of the cost unless they are specifically against our rules, or if money becomes too scarce to allocate to all of the requesting organizations. Thus, we do not discriminate against a request simply because of its cost.

Where does your funding for allocations come from?

            Our funds available for allocations come to us from the initial college budget process. This is the same way that individual departments (like OSE, ODMA, etc.) receive money.  Christine Workman handles all of our fund transfers to student organizations.

How much funding does SGA receive to operate?

            While the budget can change annually, we generally receive around $37,000 to fund organizations’ events and activities as well as fund our own activities.

How can members’ organizations, or any student, for that matter be involved in SGA decision making processes?

            The SGA holds open meetings every other Tuesday at 9 p.m. in the Leidy Room starting October 11^th, and we expect that organizations who have received or would like to receive funding send a representative to each of these meetings so they can voice their concerns about their allocations or their organizations themselves as well as communicate with other organizations about working together to create change on or off the campus. Any student who wishes to come to the meetings and voice his or her opinions about how our campus can be improved is certainly welcome, although Academic Affairs does hold 411 Forums to allow for these types of complaints or opinions to be expressed and answered. Our meetings tend to focus on inter-organizational communication, but the ultimate goal is to make the McDaniel campus more fun and get students out of their rooms to enjoy what’s around them!

What is SGA planning to do this year/what are your major goals besides allocations?  Anything new?

            Our major goals for this year are: become a more visible leadership entity on the McDaniel campus, facilitate transparent student organizational allocations, and facilitate better communication among the student body. In order to facilitate the SGA being a more visible leadership organization on campus, the Office of Student Engagement is launching an online system called OrgSync, which allows all student organizations to communicate with each other by e-mail, text, and phone while also combining group calendars to display all organization-run campus events in one concise calendar, thereby allowing all groups (Greek life included) to cooperate when planning events and be able to more efficiently communicate.

When are your next meetings open to the public?

            We will hold open meetings starting Tuesday October 11^th, 2011 at 9 P.M., and they will occur every two weeks from then through Winter Break. They will begin again the following semester every other Tuesday evening.

Who should go to SGA meetings?

            Any individual who is a student or faculty member (or Alum) on the McDaniel College campus is invited to attend out meetings. Organizations that receive funding or expect to receive funding are highly recommended to represent themselves at each open meeting.

Why is transparency important to SGA?

            The SGA believes in transparent allocations because we want the entire student body to see that anybody can receive funding to contribute an event, activity, or idea itself to maintain a closely-knit McDaniel community. Obviously money is not the answer to all ideas coming to fruition to better the campus, but with respect to allocations, we want everybody to be able to be involved in making our campus more fun!

Can organizations receive money during the school year if something comes up? How?

            As stated previously, any organization is welcome to submit an allocation application during the school year as well as during the summer, but it must be understood that funding may not be given due to budget limitations. Co-sponsorships are more likely to be funded by the SGA once the academic year has commenced.

Friends may also offer condolences and visit the family at the funeral home on Monday from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.  Student Affairs will be providing transportation to/from the Fellows, Helfenbein and Newnam Funeral Home.  To sign up for transportation, students should contact the Department of Campus Safety (x2202) by 12noon, Monday, October 10th.  Transportation will depart at 5:00pm on Monday, October 10th from the parking lot located at the entrance of the Department of Campus Safety.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Troy Wilkins Memorial Scholarship Fund, 108 Spruce Drive, Queen Anne, MD 21657.

On behalf of the McDaniel College, we offer our deepest sympathy to Troy’s parents, his brother, and family members.”

-an email to the McDaniel College community

William was a Maryland Distinguished Scholar interested in studying Chemistry at McDaniel College, pursuing a pre-med track.

Many members of the Student Affairs Office will be available for support until midnight tonight, and counseling services will also be available throughout the week in Winslow Hall.   Please call campus safety (410-857-2202) for counseling throughout the night.

The staff members in the Administration and Finance and Financial Planning and Budget departments understand this fear and work hard every year to ensure the net revenue and expenditures emulate the best option for both McDaniel College and its students.  Every cent of tuition/room and board goes into the operating budget which is largely responsible for the day to day necessities like salaries, food service, and technology.

Dr. Ethan Seidel, Vice President of Professional Economics and Business, explained the budget-making process as being very difficult and involving a lot of teamwork.  “Typically the budget director sends out a survey in the fall, asking departments for budget requests.  Then the director collects the requests and meets with the budget committee to decide what can be met.”

To be sure that all needs are met, more committees are called on to make budget requests.  “President Casey has instituted a ‘Strategic Thinking Group’ with diverse faculty and staff representation,” said Kim Seeley, Director of Financial Planning and Budget.  “These committees make recommendations on things such as tuition rates, fund raising initiatives, building and renovation plans – just to name a few.”

Dr. Seidel said, “The budget committee is made up of people like Dr. Casey, the Deans, SGA, etc.  When the committee finishes they propose the budget to the Board of Trustees who then finalize the budget for next year.”

Every year the budget as well as the list of expenses is divided into eight categories.  Without just one category, new ventures like the Green Terrace would be completely without funds.  McDaniel depends on the efficiency of the operating budget every day.

Tuition along with Room and Board is responsible for over 78% of the college’s revenue, but there are, of course, other sources of funding.  Grants are an integral part of McDaniel as they provide for specific department needs and help to pay for big projects like the recent renovation of Glar.  To give an example, if a foundation wanted to assist the science department with better lab equipment, they would give McDaniel a grant to help pay for some.

Alumni and friends of McDaniel also contribute money and give back to the school through programs like Green and Gold or the Alumni fund.  While the Alumni fund is a general pool for alumni to give gifts, Green and Gold deals exclusively help pay for athletic programs and equipment.  Many of McDaniel’s athletic program is funded through such generous contributions.

The Alumni fund is largely responsible for providing scholarships for students as well as paying for unrestricted operating expenses.  Without the Alumni fund, many students enrolled at McDaniel would not have the scholarships or financial aid they need.

Since McDaniel’s founding in 1867, a savings called the endowment fund has been growing through various resources like gifts or even left-over revenue.  Because it serves as savings, each year the budget sets aside a strict amount to be taken out of endowment to pay for operating costs.  “For instance, if someone gave $100,000 for endowment,” said Dr. Seidel.  “McDaniel would only take out 5% out of that money every year so it can keep growing through interest.”

Operating costs don’t just apply to needs like salaries or equipment, but also cover summer camps or on-campus conferences.  This category is called Auxiliary on the net revenue, and summer camps like Summer Academic Enrichment Program (SAEP) would not exist without it. 

The fears from parents and students about the ways their tuition payments are used are not hereditary.  They originate, rather, from the current uncertain economic environment.  With unemployment on the rise, where does McDaniel stand?

About 6% of McDaniel’s expenses every year goes towards paying debt accumulated through borrowing and loans.  Although it may seem like a lot of money, it is all being taken care of in small payments to make the debt more manageable.

No matter what, McDaniel College has prepared for the poor economy.  “We have worked hard to control expenses and we are realizing cost savings through restructured debt, price locks on utilities, and reduced energy usage through installation of geo-thermal wells,” said Kim Seeley.  “While our endowment has seen significant fluctuations, our returns compared to other endowments have placed above the 75th percentile over the past three years according to a national survey by National Association of College and University Business Offices (NACUBO).”

One of the biggest worries of many students though is whether their tuition is going towards big projects like the new stadium instead of their education.  “It seems like a lot of money go towards sports at McDaniel,” said junior Logan Otremba. 

It might ease the mind to know that those big renovations don’t come from the budget or not even from borrowed money but actually from big donations.  Tuition, in other words, is helping to pay for only the college essentials.

The renovating paid for through tuition are minor projects like the new carpet in Ensor.  Also, a lot of costs went into replacing furniture and painting in Whiteford residence hall.  Every year McDaniel tries to renovate at least one thing using the money from revenue.

Between the net amount of revenue and expenditures though, it leaves a spare $54,000.  McDaniel actually spends that money on any remaining departmental needs that weren’t fulfilled in the budget whether it is new technology or project funding.

Last year Dr. Roger Casey announced a tuition increase of $2,000 for the 2011 – 2012 academic year of McDaniel College.  That is the second year in a row that tuition has increased.  For many parents and students, it has been hard to understand the need to increase the tuition so frequently.

Many students firmly believe that their tuition is a result of non-educational projects.  “I absolutely hate the decision to raise the tuition again,” said senior Ben Azat.  “I feel like it is a result of the new GLAR.”  Out of all the reasons why tuition was increased, big projects was not one of them.

“The college works towards setting a total tuition package that is competitive and allows us to cover fixed costs and fund the initiatives that are most important to providing the highest quality education,” said Kim Seeley.  “We strive to meet the financial needs of our students through a very robust financial aid program.  Ninety percent of all students receive some form of financial assistance through academic scholarships, need-based aid, and student loans.”

Simply, the operating costs of the past two years far exceeded the amount of tuition being given at the time so it had to be increased no matter what.  Although this is always disheartening news, students and parents aren’t the only ones making sacrifices for the college.  Faculty and staff have not had any sort of pay increases for the past two years. 

McDaniel College cares about its students, using a lot of its revenue to provide scholarships and financial aid through endowment, gifts, and grants.  Despite the tuition increase, this amount of hard work and commitment to students is hard to find anywhere else.

When students need answers to their questions, there is now a new way on campus for them to find them. This fall, Hoover Library implemented a service called “Text a Librarian.” The service has been in the works since last spring and was developed by Reference and Instructional Technologies Librarian Rhonda Stricklett, who also answers text messages received through the program along with Reference and Instruction Coordinator Sally Jones.

The service allows students to send questions to the Library via text message and receive responses from a librarian.

“Let’s say I’m a student and I want to find out ‘Where can I find reserves?’” says Stricklett. “When a student sends a text message, it actually comes in on the computer to us so it’s not like it comes in to my phone.”

Once the text message is received, the computer alerts the librarian, who also receives an email about the question. From there, the librarian can type the answer, “At the front desk,” into a box and hit send. The student would receive a text message with an answer in reply. Typically, it only takes a few minutes for a response.

The information the library can provide through the Text a Librarian service is not limited to information about the library itself. Students can text all sorts of questions, such as, “Who was the sixth president of the United Sates?” and receive answers.

Of course, admits Stricklett, texting isn’t the best way to ask complex questions. However, it’s a good way to start a conversation. For example, it would probably be better for a student wanting to know the effects of music on the brain to set up an appointment in the library. Library appointments can help students utilize the library’s tools and create search terms to seek information.

Students are not limited to sending text messages to have their questions answered. There is also a form online for questions to be submitted. Students can go to hoover.mcdaniel.edu and click on “Ask a Librarian” under the “Need Help?” tab. A database with answers to frequently asked questions is also on that page.

The Text a Librarian service is not limited to students either. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, students and anyone else can text their questions to 410-346-5640. “We do get questions from the public,” says Stricklett. “I believe in the free flow of information, so I want to be able to answer questions as people have them.”

Hoover Library. Photo Casey Roberds

In celebration of the Hoover Library’s 20th anniversary, the staff is planning to make accommodations for all of the different types of people at McDaniel College.  In order to attract more students to the library, the staff will be making advances that will benefit everyone.

Jessame Ferguson, Director of Hoover Library, wants to create an atmosphere that “supports different students with different needs.”  In celebration of the academic diversity, she plans on creating improved environments for studying in the library.

Students can look forward to “workstations for collaborative work, bigger desk spaces, and bigger computer screens.”  This will be beneficial to students who are there to do more than just read a book or do research online.

In order to appease so many different students, Ferguson is planning to establish a committee that will work together in order to make the library more useful to students.  This committee will consist of students from different areas of study in order to get a wide range of opinions.

“The students will be a part of the design process,” said Ferguson. “The library is all about helping the students.”

The theme for the celebration is “Looking at Our Past, Planning for Our Future,” and in the spirit of that ideal, the staff is also planning on utilizing e-books throughout the library.  Ferguson is still working on these plans, but she said “we do have it in the budget to buy a few [e-readers] to experiment with.”  She will look to the students for their opinions on the best use of the new technologies.

The celebration will be October 13 2011 in the Hoover Library.  Speakers include Dr. LeRoy Panek, Professor Emeritus of English, Dr. Carla Hayden, CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library and honorary degree holder from McDaniel College, and Jessame Ferguson, Director of the Hoover Library.  There will be light food and beverages, and it is requested that those who plan to attend RSVP to Debbie Green at dgreen@mcdaniel.edu.

The ladies of Alpha Sigma Tau at McDaniel College. Photo Courtesy of Alpha Sigma Tau - Epilson Nu Facebook page.

During the spring of 2011, one of McDaniel’s local sororities disappeared only to resurface as something they never used to be. “Alpha Nu Omega is definitely a part of Alpha Sigma Tau’s history at McDaniel but they’re not the same,” said the Alpha Sigma Tau Educational Consultant Emily Hamsher.

Only six girls from Alpha Nu Omega transitioned over to Alpha Sigma Tau, including the current President Austin Westermann. “There’s no bad blood between the girls who transitioned and the girls who didn’t. The ones who didn’t had personal reasons which you have to respect.” The girls who were a part of Alpha Nu Omega last year were offered bids that are good for a year to join Alpha Sigma Tau along with other alumni of the local sorority.

Westermann also talked about how long of a process it was for the members of Alpha Nu Omega to find a sorority that fit what they were about as a group. Alpha Sigma Tau became the best choice.

One of the things the girls had to do in order to get the national sorority to come to campus was increase their numbers to 40 girls. Although they had the numbers in the spring, it dwindled in the summer by at least half due to graduating seniors.

The girls started recruiting as soon as they got to campus in the fall. One of the benefits of the new informal recruitment is that “it’s natural,” said Westermann. “The pressure is off and it’s more relaxed.” The girls are encouraged to get to know the prospective girl by taking a walk or going to lunch together. “I’m really happy the school implemented it.”

The obvious new benefit to being a part of a national sorority is being a part of a large sisterhood. Over the summer, Austin, Chelsea Watkins, and Sara Yost were all able to travel to Indianapolis to meet sisters from other chapters, including Salisbury. Having a strong sisterhood is what sororities are all about. “The girls get along so well. They genuinely take interest in one another. They want to be a part of each other’s lives,” Westermann continued.

An intimidating factor to joining Alpha Sigma Tau is how close the girls already are. During the Involvement Fair, Westermann said she met a lot of great freshmen who have taken an interest. Other girls who are more familiar with the group should not see their bond as intimidating but as loyalty. “Somebody can speak strongly of someone else because they know them in a different circumstance.” One of the group’s biggest supporters has been Phi Mu, a national sorority that has been on campus for a much longer time then Alpha Sigma Tau.

As for what separates Alpha Sigma Tau from other sororities, Westermann doesn’t have an answer, “I’m not in other sororities so I wouldn’t know about them but for us, we’re all in a sorority, specifically Alpha Sigma Tau, because the people made it worth it.”

Right now the girls are considered a colony until their first pledge class goes through initiation in the fall. On Sunday September 11th, the girls held their first pinning ceremony for new members. Alumni from Baltimore came up to show their support for the girls. The girls will soon be involved with the Carroll County Boys & Girls Club as well as Treats for Troops, and Stars & Stripes.

Alpha Sigma Tau’s motto is “Active, Self-reliant, and Trustworthy”. These girls took the initiative to find a national sorority to keep their group together on their own; they have built a solid bond with one another, and are ready to be active with McDaniel’s Greek life as well as the local community. “It feels so good to be back,” says a joyous Westermann.

Having the colors green and gold, how could they not be a good fit for McDaniel?

The current freshman class participated in a ceremony in which they carried candles on a path through campus, passing through the Arch, while being welcomed into the McDaniel community by their Peer Mentors, faculty, and upperclassmen.

Christine Workman, Director of the Office of Student Engagement, explained that there was a tradition on campus from the 1930s to the 1960s when freshman and senior women exchanged greetings in a lantern ceremony.

“We wanted to build on that tradition but build a new event,” explained Workman, who said that it was important that they develop a ceremony that utilizes the iconic McDaniel arch.

In four years, the Class of 2015 will repeat the walk before graduation.

“It had good sentimental value,” said freshman Agustina Rius. “It was really different for all people. For one girl, it was the first time she had heard crickets.”

Matt Dreyer, a peer mentor, thought it was “a cool idea,” but suggested luminaries next time because he thought it was too windy for candles.

While some upperclassmen wished they had gotten to experience this new tradition, others disagreed.

“I just don’t get it,” said senior Samantha Lopez. “I think ceremonies like that are silly.”

According to Rius, some of the freshman agreed.

“A lot of people thought it looked like a cult and decided not to go,” said Rius.

Ms. Workman says that all of the feedback her office has received “tells us that it was successful.”

“The candle walk was designed as a traditional event for students to reflect about their journey into the McDaniel community,” Ms. Workman explained.

There were other additions to Orientation as well. Convocation was streamed live in Decker Auditorium, and 100 people utilized this service this year.

“Typically, we have a very large audience,” said Ms. Workman. “We wanted to provide an opportunity for people to view the event not outside.”

“We wanted to really showcase for all students things to do on campus, ways to get involved,” said Christine Workman, director of the Office of Student Engagement (OSE).

One of the most significant happenings was a new twist on an old event. The Activity Fair that used to be held in the Forum was moved outside and dubbed The Involvement Fair.

“It was really successful,” said junior Hanna Martin, speaking for Asian Community Coalition. “We got about 30 names. I think it would’ve been better if we’d been placed closer to Red Square.”

For the event, Englar Dining Hall was shut down and moved outside to Memorial Square, where over 900 people ate.

Ms. Workman said that OSE was impressed with the “amazing turnout,” and plans to hold the Involvement Fair outside again next year, weather permitting.

The other Welcome Week events were also well-attended, and OSE plans to add a few more events next year.

“Since this was the first year, we wanted to make sure we had well-rounded opportunities for students,” explained Ms. Workman. “We had such a good turnout, we’ll be able to start planning in the Spring.”

Spring planning will allow campus organizations to get involved and host their own events.

OSE sent a Welcome Week assessment to 600 students, but welcomes suggestions and feedback from everyone.

Peter graduated from Mahopac High School in 2008, where he was an accomplished wrestler. He was currently a member of the wrestling squad at McDaniel.

In addition to his parents of Mahopac, he is survived by his sister Laura of Fairfax, VA, his brother Paul of Mahopac, his uncle Michael Caruso and his wife Linda of Dunnellon, FL, his aunt Joan Hanna of Mahopac and cousins Philip Hanna and Joshua Caruso.

Visiting will be held on Tuesday June 28 from 4-8 pm at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday June 29 at 11 am at St. John The Evangelist Church in Mahopac. More information can be found at http://hosting-11936.tributes.com/show/Peter-Caruso-91812562

Our community extends deepest sympathy to Peter’s family.

Reprinted Courtsey of McDaniel College Communication and Marketing Department

Check out Pictures Speak Louder to see a gallery of bunny pictures! Photo by Krystina Shultz.

Sometime in the early hours of the morning on Monday, May 2, bunnies were painted all over campus by a group of 12 students. Throughout the following weeks, the sanctions (including seniors not being allowed to stay for Senior Week) had campus buzzing with questions: Is it art or vandalism? What is a just punishment?

The final decision on the sanctions finally came to a rest with seniors being allowed to stay for Senior Week. This decision came after much back and forth between administration, students, and faculty on the student’s behalf.

What was the motivation for this act? Junior Darcy Elburn, one of the students involved, said, “I wanted to create a surprise street art installation and film interviews with students to test the shock value of street art and its ability to construct meaning and dialogue from repeated images. Basically I wanted to know if I could get people involved in a discussion.”

So why bunnies? One of the students involved who requested to remain anonymous explains that it was inspired by a made up story “about a little bunny who lived on the sidewalk and how people would walk down the sidewalk and be so focused on their own lives that they wouldn’t see the bunny and step on him.”

At a Soap Box on Friday, May 6, which attracted nearly 30 students, senior Annie O’Grady said, “Sometimes we get so wrapped up we don’t notice things. She wanted people to notice there’s something outside our own lives.”

In the art versus vandalism debate at the same soap box, senior August Matzko Sangster said, “The students demonstrated a lack of judgment by blatantly committing vandalism. It’s not up to us to determine the punishments. Students done goofed.”

Rafael Seyum chimed in, “I think it’s art. They’re using the wall as their canvas. But I think they should have used common sense. Although it’s art, it’s wrong. It’s graffiti. They’re giving other students the sign that it’s ok to tag anything.”

Regardless of whether it’s art or vandalism, it is undeniable that there have been costly damages.

A second student involved who requested to remain anonymous said, “The facts are these: did we paint on the buildings? Yes. Did we believe the paint could be easily removed from all surfaces? Yes. Did we do it maliciously? No. It would have been another story if I had spray painted “McDaniel college sucks” on buildings… We did not do this maliciously, have fully cooperated with the administration, came forward saying we had painted them and offered to clean and pay for their removal and I believe that it should show the administration that this wasn’t a case of vandalism but innocent stupidity.”

At the Soap Box, Director of Residence Life Michael Robbins said, “I don’t have any difficulty believing they didn’t set out to damage things… I get that it was an accident. It doesn’t change the fact that it costs money and takes time… Physical plant doesn’t have time to deal with 206 bunnies. The rain did not work.”

A third student involved who chose to remain anonymous says, “Not only did we offer to clean off the bunnies, we were already fully prepared to do so the following morning. We have offered many times, but the administration has made it very clear that we are not allowed to touch the bunnies.”

Elburn says, “I think that we should first have to clean off the bunnies that are on basic surfaces (sidewalks, brick, etc.) and then work for Physical Plant to help clean more complicated surfaces (Limestone, Marble). If any surfaces can be proven to need outside contractors to be cleaned we should obviously pay for this service.”

Robbins says, “I think that that because when it comes to some cleaning stuff if you don’t do it right you can really mess it up and the college didn’t want to risk that so close to commencement. You paint limestone, it doesn’t come off that easily.”

Rumors flew around campus about exactly what the punishment would be for those involved.

In response to an email, Dean Elizabeth Towle commented, “Because the bunnies/graffiti situation overlaps with the College Discipline Process, neither Dean Gerl nor I are able to talk with you about the incident.”

Elburn says, “I am receiving sanctions which include: Removal from campus housing for the remainder of the semester, Disciplinary probation, 40 hours of community service on campus or in Westminster only, writing an apology letter to physical plant, and payment of restitution to the college for damages.”

Senior Matthew Bisenius, another student involved, said on May 11 that “On Friday afternoon, we were removed from residence halls. On Monday afternoon, I was told that I would not be able to return to my resident hall for the rest of my time at this school. This has been difficult for me as a resident of Connecticut without a vehicle, but earlier today, we seniors were informed that we could return to our dorms with a return date depending on individual circumstances. I am writing a letter of apologies to the physical plant. We will be splitting the restitution for damage among the twelve of us involved, but we have not been informed what the cost of restitution is yet. This is particularly concerning for me as I cannot get my diploma or transcripts until after I have paid the restitution fee.”

In addition to the Soap Box, Monday May 10 from 7:30 p.m. to almost 9 an estimated 50 students knocked on President Casey’s door and discussed the matter.

The first anonymous student involved said, “The student response has been great. I know it really means a lot to us that so many students are being supportive of us as we go through this process.”

Elburn says, “I am very disappointed in the response not because of the punishments…[but] because of the way that the disciplinary process has been handled. In the first few days after this event we felt voiceless, helpless …Even later when we were finally allowed to explain some of the concept behind this act I feel that it was not taken into account or considered and we were constantly met with contradictions and miscommunications.”

The first anonymous student involved said, “Honestly, I am very shocked about the response of the administration. They treated us like criminals, and we never had any ill-intentions or malicious thoughts when doing this. This was meant to be light-hearted and thought provoking… None of us have a previous record, we are all good students, highly involved all over campus, and overall good people. I truly believe that we are being treated unfairly.

Obviously looking back, I wish this could just have never happened…We should have tested the chalk paint on multiple surfaces, not just one… but people make mistakes, and we would have never done this if we thought we would be destroying anything on our campus – that’s exactly the opposite of what we wanted.”

Bisenius said, “The petition, the spontaneous gathering on Dr. Casey’s yard, the movement on Facebook, this has all proved to me something that I had all but given up on, that our students can be involved and that involvement can make a difference.”

This incident has the campus thinking, discussing and even meeting to discuss. Much has been learned by everyone involved. Here’s to the end of a year that was anything but boring.

On Friday, April 23, the Phi Sigma national office notified McDaniel College as well as the sorority that an inquiry was to take place regarding the potential violations.

By Easter Sunday, the sorority was told that they would be suspended until the investigation was complete.

A source from the sorority, who wished to remain anonymous, described the group as “frustrated” and “defeated.”

Christine Workman, Director of Student Engagement, explained that these steps are typical of the process that any national organization would take, and that “it would happen on any campus.”

The source disagreed with the actions, claiming that the group was being treated with a “guilty until proven innocent” mindset.

The source went on to explain that the sorority had difficulties finding out what specifically they had done wrong, and added that no policy violations had occurred.

Though the investigation is being handled by the Phi Sigma Sigma national organization, McDaniel College is providing assistance. “[The] college handled their half within 48 hours,” explained Workman and interviewed “as many women as possible.”

This information was then turned over to the organization to use. Until the suspension is lifted, Workman stated that the sorority “can’t do anything as a group.”

The Phi Sigmas have been an important part of several activities and fundraisers around campus, including Relay for Life and Up ‘Til Dawn. They were also supposed to host the Greek Awards on May 1 as well as participate in the Greek Games.

In the meantime, the sorority has been working to get back into “good graces” with Campus Safety as well as the college community in general.

“We’re hoping that the national organization will conclude their investigation as early as possible,” concluded Workman, “so that we can move forward.”

SASS director Tom Webb

As the academic year nears its end and McDaniel says goodbye to its graduating seniors, we must also offer out a bittersweet farewell to Tom Webb, the Director of Student Academic Support Services (SASS).

A friendly, helpful, and stand-out member of the McDaniel community, Webb and his amiable charisma will surely be missed on campus come next fall.

Although sad to leave, Webb was enthusiastic about the memories he cherishes from his time at the college. He says his favorite memory “unquestionably, would be the two SASS Jan-term trips to Budapest. Watching the Jan-term students grow emotionally and socially. Witnessing these same students pushing themselves well beyond their comfort zones and then to realize the rewards of taking such risks, was as they say, ‘priceless.’”

As Webb moves on to his future at the University of Delaware, he will always have a place in his heart for the McDaniel community.

Upon being asked what he thinks the biggest challenge the college faces ahead, Webb responded that “McDaniel will be challenged with controlled growth and remaining competitive while still keeping the personal ‘changing lives’ style it has always practiced. It’s a delicate balancing act, but I am certain that McDaniel’s committed faculty and staff can continue to maintain its person centered approach.”

On behalf of all students, faculty, and the Free Press, we wish Mr. Webb the best of luck in his future endeavors and will miss him next year.

There is a theme that has been repeated throughout her time at McDaniel. She cares about people. Taking time, solving problems, showing kindness and compassion, giving advice, treating everyone with respect, offering support, and being sensitive to the needs of others are just a few of the many qualities Sarah Stokely used when working with students throughout her time at McDaniel.

She has touched and changed many lives and we all are better off for having the opportunity to work with, learn from, talk to, and know Sarah. Here are just a few of the expressions of thanks from students, parents and others to Dean Sarah Stokely.

Student thank yous:

“Thanks for always being there to talk to.”

“I just wanted to thank you again for what you did for me this year. My family and I really appreciate it. It shows us that there are good caring people and I am glad to be here… I can’t wait until next year when you are my DEAN!”

“You have been such a big part of my success here over the past three years!”

“Thank you for your support and great kindness. You always have such helpful advice. Most of all, I’ve always appreciated how welcoming and respectful you’ve been.”

“Your caring and understanding of my situation was very helpful. You’ve made my time at McDaniel a life-changing experience!”

“Thank you…I wouldn’t be officially graduating without you. I really loved McDaniel, and I’ll miss it so much.”

“Thank you so much for the peace of mind you gave me last semester and for being patient.”

“I am so grateful to you for helping me through these hard times. The College would not be the same of it were not for you.”

“Thank you for going to such lengths to help me figure out such a perfect resolution to my situation.”

“Thank you for everything you have done for me…You are a true inspiration and a wonderful person.”

“I know I can rely on you to help me with any concern I have. I’m looking forward to the next years with you as my academic dean.”

“I also really appreciate the fact that you sought me out and that you were so willing to offer me help.”

“Thanks for your words of encouragement during this time in my life. It means a lot to know that you care.”

“Thank you for offering your support to me during this stressful final semester. The compassion and concern you expressed put me at ease.”

Parent comments:

“Thank you for your support, advice, personal involvement.”

“Thank you for your time invested at our meeting last Friday as well as preparatory time! We were, all 3, impressed by the time and interest that you gave us…being supportive and respectful…while maintaining a direct approach…you showed respect and sensitivity.”

“People like you in the system who treat students as individuals are often a rare and under-supported breed! And we are grateful for your help.”

“Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with my husband and me. It was very informative.”

Faculty and Staff:

*“Thank you for initiating and gathering us together for our special office lunches. We even learned to cook vegan! (*from the Staff in Academic Affairs)”

“Everyone sings your praises.”

“Thanks for all the help…You are awesome.”

We will miss Dean Stokely’s cheerful, caring and nurturing spirit. She brings out the best in each person she meets.

Freshman women experienced the renovations to the common areas of Whiteford, in order to make the first year students comfortable on the Hill.

“Demilitarize McDaniel”: Students protest militarism on campus

Two students created quite a stir on campus with their protests to demilitarize McDaniel.

Advocacy Team hosts Night of Nets

Students spent the night sleeping in tents on the Quad in order to raise awareness about malaria and its shocking reality.

“Tales from the Clit” is a new show coming to McDaniel

An original show premiered on the Hill, to “celebrate women’s sexuality and foster a more open dialogue about issues related to women and sexuality both on our campus and in the culture at large.”

Budapest Café has extended hours

President Casey listened to the advice of students and extended the hours for the Budapest Café until midnight on Monday through Saturday.

Glar to have wintertime renovations

The college announced that Glar was going to be completely renovated for students over winter break, making it more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Late night confrontation between students and coach

A staff member involved with the athletics department allegedly pulled a handgun out of his glove compartment in a late night confrontation on Pennsylvania Avenue by McDaniel College students.

Greek recruitment to see changes in the spring

Fall recruitment went well for the fraternities and sororities of McDaniel College, but changes in the spring were planned to help make students more comfortable with the process of rounds.

New Asian Studies program

Kenny Endo, a Taiko artist, gave a stunning performance to kick off the new Asian Studies program for McDaniel undergrads.

Bed bugs: Are they on your sheets?

McDaniel faced four cases of bed bugs this year, creating unnecessary stress for those affected.

McDaniel’s presidential inauguration approaches

The inauguration of Dr. Casey approached and the campus was full of anticipation.

Glar renovations are underway

Students were forced to deal with temporary dining options while the Glar renovations slowly finish up.

Snow day at McDaniel

Students celebrated class delays and cancellations by engaging in snowy weather activities

on the Hill.

Allies launches new chapter of gay, lesbian, and straight education network

The Carroll County GLSEN planned to reach out to all members of the county and establish itself as a fully functional chapter by the end of April.

The flu on campus

With over 100 cases of flu-like symptoms on campus, even the Wellness Center staff was

unable to stay healthy.

Free Press brings a new era online

In efforts to go green and adapt to a changing society, the Free Press moved to entirely online issues.

Warm weather brings fresh changes to Glar

Students have mixed opinions about new Glar- Does the atmosphere make up for the mediocre food?

Murray looked through and collected past Free Press headlines and articles to reflect on the eventful year. Enjoy!

On August 2nd, the manifestation of a classic literary character made his way onto the McDaniel campus and proved the Baltimore has the toughest of all football teams.

A modern version of Lennie from Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men appeared at Ravens camp. The 6’4”, 340 pound leviathan ran onto the practice field. He claimed the Ravens were “his boys” and was under the impression that Coach Billick offered him a shot to walk-on to the team.

Unlike the literary version, this Lennie did not covet soft things like mice and rabbits (if that was the case, he would have chosen Philadelphia). He loved hard, vicious, and nasty soldiers of the gridiron.

Ravens camp in Westminster offered him the biggest abundance of such entities. He decided on the Ravens and deliberately avoided the other pansy NFL teams.

According to Campus Safety, the goliath of a man was obviously quite crazy but far from a harmless simpleton. His staggering stature intimidated the most intimidating of Campus Safety Officers.

Officer Chris Collins (the one who looks like he can break people in half) was the first to confront the lunatic and felt admittedly uncomfortable.

He tried distracting Lennie with small talk and after long last convinced him to leave the field.

I shouldn’t have to point out how difficult this must have been.

Let alone trying to avoid an accidental crushed head or broken neck, convincing a crazy guy to change his mind must be harder than persuading Campus Safety that you’re 21.

Nonetheless, Lennie toddled away with a trespassing violation. I say God bless you Lennie. Your choice provides an irrefutable argument of why the

Ravens will win the Super Bowl.

The Steelers suck.