Statement Regarding Student Demonstration from Dr. Knowles
Here is a link to a statement made by Dr. Eddie Ade Knowles, VP for Student Life, regarding the “Uprise at Five” event. There are numerous points that he makes within the release that I would consider to be flawed, blatantly wrong, or hiding behind ambiguity and vagueness. Decide for yourself though. Full text also below.
Statement regarding the February 26 student demonstration
Freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are essential components of a vibrant academic community. We respect the rights of all members of the Rensselaer community to express their opinions and viewpoints, and we are pleased to see our students so actively engaged in making their voices heard. They have organized and sought information in a responsible and productive manner.
The administration has reached out consistently to student leaders, the student newspaper, and other student groups to discuss issues affecting student life. In the fall, students had the opportunity to weigh in on the yearly performance planning process in the Division of Student Life. We have considered the input from all of these discussions in the decision-making process, and we have placed great emphasis on the potential impacts to student life and academic programs.
The actions related to student life have been taken with two clear goals in mind: to further enhance the student experience and to make additional financial aid resources available to the students who need it most. In the past, compensation for Resident Assistants has been determined without consideration of individual need. We have decided to reduce the overall stipend, but a process has been put in place that will allow any RA to work with the financial aid office if the stipend does not meet their financial need. This will allow RAs with greater need to apply for supplemental financial aid. We also are developing a plan for a special housing rate for RAs.
There appears to be confusion regarding housing cost increases. The vast majority of students will see an increase of about 3-4 percent. The 15 percent increase will be applied only to certain double rooms and suites, which represents about 10 percent of the total housing stock. Students will have the option of selecting these rooms via the housing lottery.
We welcome the input of our students, faculty, and staff as we move Rensselaer forward during these challenging times.
Eddie Ade Knowles, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Share
Which points are wrong, and how so?
Which points are wrong? This one:
“The administration has reached out consistently to student leaders, the student newspaper, and other student groups to discuss issues affecting student life.”
And this one:
“We welcome the input of our students, faculty, and staff as we move Rensselaer forward during these challenging times.”
Exactly.