The Observer, December 8, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 13
Editorial: Semester Grades
Athletics – A is for Achieving. After earning A's in last year's editorial for "Aspiring," the athletic department has gone a step further, with several teams delivering inspiring, high-quality postseason performances. The women of the cross country team achieved unprecedented success, capturing conference and regional championships while winning an astounding six meets in a row. The men's soccer team brought excitement to Case by reaching the Sweet Sixteen when they were initially picked to finish last in the conference. With a strong freshman class for women's basketball, and continued solid performances from the swim team, the momentum looks to continue in the winter season as well.
Arts on Campus – B is for Burgeoning. With the number of campus a cappella, theater, and dance opportunities on the rise in recent years, we are happy to report that the oft-overlooked liberal arts side of Case is going strong. Almost every weekend, students are able to attend musical or theatrical performances due to the dedication of many talented individuals. However, this surge in musical and artistic activity on campus brings to light inadequacies in performance and practice spaces, which must be addressed in the near future, as Case continues to woo artistically-inclined incoming students.
Greek Life – C is for Controlling. It is apparent that Greek Life is an essential establishment at Case providing students with numerous social, philanthropic, and academic opportunities. However, the recruitment and social regulations placed on students solely because they are members of a fraternity or sorority can lead more to hostility than camaraderie within the Greek community. Though the limitations are enforced to ensure the safety of Greeks, more attention should be placed on encouraging strong relationships between members so that such regulations are not a necessity. Greeks should take to heart the meaning of a community and focus on the well being of one another.
UPB – P is for Passive. While University Programming Board (UPB) remains one of Case's most important sources of cheap/free student entertainment, many of their events this semester could have benefited from wider publicity, such as the Roots concert, which many students found out too late was the only large campus concert this year. However, in lieu of one big concert per semester, UPB is offering more of their popular weekend trips for next semester, as well as free Spot nights and crafting events which students can look forward to. Let's just hope they let students know in time.
Adminstration – U is for Unstable. Since the resignation of President Edward Hundert last spring, the university has lost a total of four deans as well as numerous faculty and staff members due to the gloomy budget deficit. Though interim president Gregory Eastwood has stepped up nicely to the plate by putting out fires, connecting with students, and pushing Case forward, there is no doubt that the university is still in need of permanent leaders to create a more stable environment. Without committed leaders planning for the future and staying to execute their visions, we can only move so far.
