Last week I did something that I never thought I would do.
I testified against a student organization at a university
hearing where the question of their official recognition was at stake. The fraternity in question had been on
probation for almost two years before this point. While on probation their behavior represented
a flagrant disregard for previous decision and for the care of those in their
organization.
I sat there and answered questions from the hearing board
defending my office’s decision to remove recognition. I talked about the inability of the students
to rehabilitate themselves and their organization. I spoke of our university’s attempts to help
the fraternity through organizational and membership reviews.
Most of all, I was arguing to get rid of an involvement
opportunity for our students and how that is counter-intuitive to everything
that we do in student affairs.
But is it?
When I began my career as a Hall Director I was all about
connecting with students, providing them with opportunities to engage with the
university and each other, and to find leadership opportunities.
Fifteen years later as the Dean of Students on that same
campus, I still am. But my perch
requires me to see more.
It’s about health and safety. And getting students to graduation. And then sending them off into society to
make life better for those that come behind them. And, if we can’t keep students healthy and
safe, they can’t be leaders, can’t succeed in their classes, and can’t make it
to that fantastic moment of tossing their caps in the air at graduation.
I feel good about what I did. And I am sure I will have to do it
again. It’s the responsibility I have
accepted as a leader on my campus.
Dr. Keith Humphrey
ACPA President, 2012-2013
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