Faculty Senate applauds Spanier

Affirming the feelings of many among the University's faculty, members of the University Faculty Senate cheered Tuesday as University President Graham Spanier stated that the University must take a firm stand against censorship.

"I can't envision any circumstance where this University would accept any notion of censorship," he said. "I can't tell you how many people have suggested that I, as president of the University, should be reviewing every piece of art that goes up."

Spanier's comments alluded to a controversy surrounding a work of art by Christine Enedy (senior-visual arts), displayed in Zoller Gallery for the past month.

A state lawmaker and several lobbying groups recently pressured Spanier to have the controversial artwork -- a quilt covered with 25 pairs of underwear, each with a cross stitched into the crotch -- removed.

Spanier said he hoped the faculty understood his position and supported it. His comments were followed by loud applause from the entire Senate.

Spanier addressed a number of other issues at the meeting, including a recent survey of students about their behaviors regarding alcohol consumption.

He said he was encouraged by the survey, which seemed to indicate a changing trend in drinking behaviors. But, there is still a definite drinking problem at the University, Spanier warned, although the new figures are promising.

Following its commitment to improving the academic atmosphere this year, the Senate also debated a proposal that would promote further excellence in teaching at the University. The proposal includes the creation of additional awards for teaching excellence.

Another proposal that was passed by the Senate would allow students in some areas of study to receive credit for work done outside the classroom by preparing portfolios.

The Senate also passed legislation to improve the quality and usefulness of the undergraduate degree audit report. The measure requires degree audits to be more frequently updated and more easily available to students.