Stetson Commons 1993-5-1

Commons A Newsletter for Families of Stetson University Students Fall 1993 Volume V No. 1 Student Government Association President Gayle Littleton, right, talks with some new Stetson Hatters during a FOCUS session to help them get acquainted with the more than 90 campus organizations. New Religion and Ethics ram stresses values Progi A BROAD PROGRAM in Religion and Ethics that combines a wide range of academic courses and beyond-the- classroom activities is being introduced this semester. It has one clearly-stated purpose — encouraging students to "make a difference" in their careers and communities. Because they emphasize multi-faith and global approaches to religious and ethical questions, courses in religion and philosophy form the academic core of the interdisciplinary program. The Program cooperates with many campus groups in developing programs that promote ethical choices and humanitarian activities: - Out-of-the classroom activities such as Habitat for Humanity and Youth Motivators; - A new Encounter Series, which broadens the weekly ecumenical chapel <■•■ vice to include programs on all aspects ethical and social concerns with sinkers such as author/physician Ferrol Sams and political ethicist Max Sherman; - Programming by the Institute for Christian Ethics and campus religious groups like Baptist Student Union, Catholic Campus Ministry, and Hillel; - A new Forum on World Religions. The comprehensive program, a personal project of President Doug Lee, has been evolving over the last five years. It is being coordinated by Dean of the Chapel Clyde Fant. The university's mission statement commits Stetson to "an intellectually challenging and collaborative learning community"; to the preparation of students for "rewarding careers ... and a lifetime of learning"; and to the encouragement of all members of the campus community "to be morally sensitive and effective citizens committed to active forms of social responsibility." The university's charter, recently revised to expand and make the Board of Trustees more representative and effective, includes an introductory section on "Character and Values" which commits the university to excellence in education and to liberal learning, faith, and ethics in the educational process. U.S. News ranks Stetson fourth STETSON UNIVERSITY again ranks fourth among southern regional universities in U.S. News & World Report's 1994 special report, "America's Best Colleges," to be published next week. Stetson ranked first in its category among Florida universities, as it did last year. In this year's top 15 southern regional universities, Wake Forest University again is first; the University of Richmond, second; and Berea College, third. "We have worked very hard to enhance the quality of a Stetson education, and we are pleased that our efforts have been reflected in the U.S. News and World Report survey," said Provost Eugene Lubot. "We will continue to concentrate on providing students with the best education we possibly can, and we hope that commitment will serve the needs of our students and their parents." Florida placed three universities, two private and one public, in the top 15 southern regional institutions. Mark that date: '93 Family Weekend MAKE SURE OCT. 22-24 is circled on your calendar. That's Family Weekend at Stetson. Among the highlights: the annual Stetson Stars student talent show; a play at Stover Theatre; men's and women's soccer matches and golf and tennis tournaments; a picnic around Holler Fountain; and a variety of information sessions on everything from Study Aboard programs and new calendar plans to deferred rush and the Prince Program. A Sunday worship service in Elizabeth Hall Chapel and brunch in the Commons close the activities. The President's Parents Council, chaired by David and Susan Mitchell from Sarasota, meets Friday afternoon, Oct. 22, to discuss campus life, student recruitment and Parents Fund progress and issues. You'll also have a chance to see all the changes on campus that occurred during the summer: the $650,000 renovation of the Commons to make it more "user friendly"; a major renovation of Nemec Hall (a similar "targeting" of a residence hall is planned each summer) and new carpets and furniture elsewhere; an exercise trail and landscaping at Rinker Field; and landscaping work on Amelia and East Minnesota, etc.