Editorial:
Semester leaves imprint for future

It’s finally time to swap the tank tops, sandals and shorts for the scarves, gloves and heavy jackets. Even though there were days in November when we sauntered to class in our summer classics, Mother Nature has predictably flipped the switch. In case the past few weeks have been a blur of papers and nights at the computer, the seemingly overnight transition from fall to winter serves as a benchmark of time. Students and professors, we have officially entered “crunch time.” Amid the rush and hectic sprint to the end of the semester, it is important to take this occasion to reflect on the highs and lows of the past 13 weeks.

The summer may have been relaxing for students, but not everyone at Rider took a vacation. Most noticeable of all is the new sign that greets students, faculty and visitors. This face of Rider does leave a corporate impression that at first seemed unsuitable for the University. Yet, time somehow, has had the power to heal. As the days and weeks went by, the new façade grew on us. Initial, uneasy feelings are dissolving into acceptance of what this facelift has to offer – a rejuvenated image for Rider. Apparently, not everyone got the memo. The cranberry and white colors were dropped from the uniforms of most of our sports teams.

Other things also got better for students as the semester progressed. Renovations on both the Lawrenceville and Princeton campuses made a world of difference. Students on the Princeton campus now have nicer facilities to brush their teeth following the overhaul of the bathrooms in Seabrook Hall. Upgrades to Cranberry’s and the University bookstore led Lawrenceville enhancements.

On the flip side, students bounced up against some bumps in the road. A look at the friendliness of Rider toward lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transsexual (LGBT) students revealed the need for improvement. It’s often said that actions speak louder than words. The administration should heed this advice and enact change. It is time LGBT students have a resource center to go to and receive counseling or other assistance. Extending the National Coming Out Day to a weeklong celebration is another way the University can demonstrate its support.

An ongoing problem with Webmail was a source of frustration for students and faculty. Even gaining access to your e-mail became a hardship. However, the Office of Information Technologies has high hopes for a new server. This present is expected to be unwrapped and ready for next semester.

On the national level, it has been an eventful few months. We witnessed a historic election in which the balance of power shifted back into the favor of Democrats. Despite this historic moment, many Rider students unfortunately let their voices go unheard at the polls. It’s a downright shame. The war in Iraq hit closer to home, as at least one Rider student has a husband fighting in that nation plagued by escalating violence.

Back here at home, the most promising development of the semester is the integration of the Lawrenceville and Princeton campuses. A new college will bring together the very best both have to offer. Students will soon have more opportunities to take classes on either campus and take advantage of more of the wide variety of programs the University has to offer. At the same time, we are forging a bond to bring the students on both campuses together in one community.