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March 13, 2007
Hanson opens home for students of color
“Transparency is the core of truth,” President Linda Hanson said to students of color gathered at her home March 5. The students had the opportunity to voice any questions or concerns they had on their mind.
First-year Brian Marbury asked Hanson what’s next in strategic planning. Hanson expressed a need for a new student center. “I want there to be a place for students to gather,” she said.
Hanson also stated other goals the Strategic Planning Committee would like to accomplish. Currently, the committee is working to make Hamline’s curriculum more diverse, continue to raise more money for scholarships, and strengthen the undergraduate curriculum. “We spend 4.5 percent of our endowment fund that goes to student aid,” she said. In regards to the strategic planning goals, Hanson said “I really think it’s important...that you find your voice. If you don’t see it there...talk to us. I’m really concerned we get this right.”
Post-baccalaureate student Lurelia Freeman was concerned with the increase in hate crimes and other crimes on campus in general. Hanson responded by saying, “Hamline has had a pretty safe record for years and years...I really think we handled [the high number of crimes that occured on campus last spring] the best we could.” She finished addressing the concern by reminding students, “You just have to be aware of your surroundings.”
Junior Andrew Carter asked Hanson what her opinions were on this year’s HU-CORE conference. Hanson said “I’ve heard nothing but good things about it...it’s extremely important [Hamline] can give your voice to our values and make ourselves visible.”
Sophomore Leah Stodieck asked whether or not Hamline’s alcohol policy targeted students of color, or students who can’t afford the $150 fine. Hanson said, “I would never do anything to target students of color.” In addition, she said if any Hamline student has trouble paying the fee, they can find ways to work things out, such as completing community service hours. Hanson said that paying bills is unfortunate, but added, “That’s part of being an adult...taking care of your affairs. It’s not about punishing anyone...it’s about making arrangements...come and talk to [the administration].”
Hanson ended the discussion with advice to seniors graduating from Hamline this May. “Once you’re through, life will take you on wonderful adventures,” she said.
Other Hamline faculty members present were Gordon Nakagawa, Director of Diversity and Integration; Assistant Dean of Students and Director of MISA Carlos Sneed, Dean of Students Alan Sickbert; Jane Tellen, who works in the president’s office, and Assistant Director of Multicultural Programs Sharonda Pugh.
Posted by dwright at March 13, 2007 10:52 PM
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