To the Editor:
In the very important discussions that have been occurring regarding the changes to take place on the Dartmouth campus, we are concerned about the definition of community that is commonly held. The five principles introduced by the trustees are meant to encompass the entire community. Of course, this must include the Graduate and Professional programs, in which approximately 25 percent of the Dartmouth student population are enrolled. However, in the past week, we feel that there has been little consideration of this substantial part of the community.
We do appreciate the importance of the impact a coeducational Greek system would have on the college. However, when reading the principles, it was our assumption that they were meant to be inclusive of the entire community. This was confirmed by President Wright during Monday night's meeting. The articles that have appeared in The Dartmouth to date do not take into account what changes these principles may have on the graduate and professional communities. Because of the numerous changes that may occur as a result of the principles, we feel that the concerns of the graduate and professional communities deserve greater attention than they have received thus far in the discussions to decide the specific changes that will ultimately occur.
It may surprise many of you to discover that there are no facilities for arts and sciences graduate students on campus, aside from academic facilities. There are only 34 housing spaces reserved for single graduate students, yet there are nearly 500 graduate students in the arts and sciences. In addition, no permanent social space exists in which graduate students can interact with each other. We hope that the money to be invested in the changes dictated by the five principles will include the special needs of the College's graduate students.
In conclusion, we wish to emphasize that the graduate student community is essential for the operation of the college, as many of us are involved both in teaching undergraduates and assisting them with research. For the future success of the graduate programs and for the future success of the College, it is necessary that these students are given due recognition on this campus.
