2008 Woodie Awards
In the Apr. 26, 2005 issue of the Tripod, I wrote an op-ed entitled, "Quad Litter Expression of Disrespect, Entitlement." I basically outlined a short experience I had in which I realized with disdain that many of my fellow students here have adopted an attitude of apathy towards the betterment of the College, and have taken for granted what we have here, often being slow to get involved with the multitude of lectures, programs, and events offered to us.
Over the past several weeks, I have been appalled by some alumni/parent contributions to the Tripod. These contributors, a term I use loosely, question the priorities of our dear alma mater, suggesting that Trinity has chosen the scoreboard over scholastics.
As James Thaler wrote in the Nov. 15 issue of the Tripod, "18 students unassociated with any formal organization held a 'study-in' on Vernon St." Reasons for the demonstration included contrasting studying with "normal" Trinity College Saturday night behavior and promoting a dialogue evaluating that behavior, but also maintaining that the group's intent was not to encourage studying on a Saturday night.
Adrienne Gaffney's op-ed "No Real Case Against Alito" presents the rather idealistic view that politics does not or should not play into the Senate confirmation process for the Supreme Court. Specifically, that Alito's views, including his unequivocal stance that abortion is not protected by the Constitution, should not bar him from confirmation.
As a recent student of Tutorial College, I have been disturbed by reports of the program in this publication. I am surprised by the responses to this program by Noa Landes (Nov. 1) and by Ben Miller (Nov. 8) and also by the recent report of students petitioning to leave the program but remain in their housing.
