COLUMN: From the President
The first month of classes has already come and gone, and the history of our university has changed. Following the tragedy of Sept. 11, CNN reported the nation’s colleges and universities have become the hot spot for crimes of intolerance. But this statement does not reflect the attitudes of the students of Utah State University. Our student body came together.
Two days after the attack, with more than 5,000 strong, we stood shoulder to shoulder at the candlelight vigil on the Quad to reaffirm our commitment to humanity. Together we adorned the campus with white ribbons as a symbolic reminder that peace and tolerance should not be suffocated by ignorance. Fundraisers and blood drives were organized by students in an effort to contribute in a meaningful way. Students have rendered countless hours of service to this cause in an effort to fight the effects of terrorism. The far-reaching effects of these labors will assure our campus does not fall into the snare of indifference.
Far too many people are deserving of thanks to be individually mentioned. However, I would like to personally express my appreciation to the Greek community. The various chapters of Greek students on campus became the real heroes last week. This group often receives undo criticism, despite the countless hours of service they provide to the community. With only days to publicize various activities, each house assisted in the preparation of last week’s events. Whether it was painting signs or collecting money for relief efforts, the success of last week would not have happened without their help.
Now, let’s shift gears to an entirely different subject. Many of you are aware, when President Kermit L. Hall came to Logan, he asked the university not spend money on an inaugural ball, as is the tradition for incoming presidents at most schools. Instead, he requested this money be invested into a new endowment to provide more USU students with scholarships. Pledging $10,000 of his own money, he challenged everyone in the USU community to do the same. That was several months ago, and President Hall’s vision of a hefty endowment has come to fruition. The first Inaugural scholarships will be awarded at a special banquet this Friday.
Many different people have contributed to the worthy cause of education at USU. Donations came from various members of the administration, faculty and staff. People from within the Logan community responded to the president’s challenge. Even people who had never set foot on campus have seen the value in what this scholarship can accomplish. However, there is one important group that was never asked to support the Inaugural Scholarship.
All this week, Associated Students of Utah State University will show its support for the Inaugural Scholarship Fund by sponsoring events geared toward matching President Hall’s original pledge of $10,000. To make this possible, the ASUSU Executive Council passed a bill to match up to $5,000 of student contributions.
Now hold on for just a minute. I know what you’re thinking right now: “Why does it feel like every time I turn around I’m being ‘nickled and dimed’ for another reason?” Don’t worry. This fundraiser is neatly tucked into several activities on campus, and by supporting these activities you will be giving back to your education and helping other students attend USU. These scholarships are not reserved for just the 4.0 students and current students are eligible to receive them as well.
For example, ASUSU has partnered with Housing and Food Services to bring you spectacular barbecues on Tuesday and Thursday where you can get hamburgers and hot dogs for $1. On Wednesday, Finding Forrester will be shown in the Kent Concert Hall at 8 p.m. with $1 admission. At the lecture on Thursday, you’ll have the chance to enter a raffle to win an Aggie Football Fan gift package among other great prizes. I’ve even decided to play my guitar outside the football game to try and make a few bucks. Look for these and other events during the week where you can give back to USU.
It now becomes a challenge to each of us to find a way to support the president’s investment into our education. Many students at USU are fortunate enough to currently be receiving similar scholarships. Giving back a dollar to this cause will insure that future students will have that opportunity as well. So find a way to support the university this week by buying a burger or coming to the movie. It just might be your children who will someday benefit from this generosity.