Editorial:
Signs of change usher in semester

Over the course of a few short months, the face of Rider has undergone an enormous transformation starting with the removal of the elm tree from the logo. Despite student uproar over the decision to remove this symbolic figure, plans for a new university logo surged ahead, and the unveiling of a new design is coming shortly. In the meantime, a new Rider sign was implanted at the main entrance of the campus that seemingly belongs at a corporate headquarters such as Bristol-Myers Squibb or Johnson & Johnson.

Instead of reinforcing a sense of tradition and student-centeredness as the timeless Rider brick sign greeting students and visitors did, the new sign uproots the principles this University was founded upon. The symbolization behind this sign underscores a gradual shift in thinking that seems to be taking hold. Some may argue that a university ought to be run similarly to a corporation pursuing profit and forwarding efforts that increase the bottom line. Perhaps business is business, but Rider prides itself on its students first and foremost. The changing of the guard comes at a time when tradition needs to be highlighted to remind us of the rich history Rider is founded upon.

In preparation for the 2006 Commencement Ceremony, beautiful flowers and shrubbery were planted side-by-side with the previous Rider sign, only to be ripped out weeks later. This is perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects of the change. It is unfathomable that all this work and effort would be exerted to replace a sign that gave off a well-needed and desired sense of tradition. The highly anticipated new logo offers another perplexing piece to this puzzle. How could a new sign be planted before having a definitive symbol for the University?

The new name plate is eye-catching indeed with its bold silver lettering and cranberry background, yet it fails to encompass the values purported in the statement of community values and, most of all, cement a sense of identity. The new sign seems to minimize the pride in Rider as a university by putting that word in black lettering that makes it virtually unnoticeable at night. In addition to the poor aesthetics of the sign, the lighting projected onto the sign at night gives the Rider inscription an almost theatrical glow and a pink background.

In stark contrast, tremendous improvement has been made to other facilities. Most noticeable is the complete renovation of Cranberry’s, which includes a revamped menu including pasta-to-go and other scrumptious options. Students now have an alternative from the usual lunch or dinner selection offered at Daly’s. Kroner Hall received a well-deserved facelift this summer with new carpeting and keys. Best of all is the recently completed 24-hour study lounge in the library. Besides being equipped with a coffee machine ready to meet the caffeine needs of students, the lounge provides a quiet alternative for studying.

These new amenities come at a time when the University is facing an overcrowding problem in classrooms, Daly’s and residence halls. Long-term plans to confront this dilemma are being worked on in accordance with the master plan. But for the time being, larger classes, cramped residence halls and long lines in Daly’s may simply become a fact of life. On the positive side, of course, the higher demand for on-campus housing reflects the growing stature of the University.

As the two campus, one college initiative progresses and becomes more than a simple strategic plan, traditions will strengthen and reinforce the bonds between the Lawrenceville and Princeton campuses. This is a crucial step forward for the University. Students will have increased opportunities to take classes on either campus and experience an expanding art and music program. The collaboration among students, faculty and administration also will be extremely beneficial. Separated by different academic interests, this gradual transformation will provide students with an enhanced chance for integration.

In that light, the bustling crowds, noticeable facelift and planned unification of the two campuses represent an emerging and promising path for Rider.