October 15, 1997 — LION’S EYE — Page 5 Opinion lL Review Thon: Giving Hope to Kids By JoAnne Johnson While attending the first Council of Commonwealth Student Government (CCSG) conference at University Park over the weekend of October 3 and 4, I took part in a highly intensive workshop concerning the importance of Penn State’s Dance Marathon (‘“Thon). Although ‘Thon began as competition among Greek societies at University Park to raise money for seriously ill children, it is now a huge charitable effort touching all campuses of Penn State. I was surprised at the dedication of the fraternities and sororities at University Park, not only for bragging rights, but also out of genuine concern for the cause of children stricken with cancer. While sitting in that meeting, I witnessed some very emotional speeches given by fellow students, whose passion seemed to far exceed my own, and I wondered why. I wondered why everyone cared so much. I wondered how so many students could suffer through 48 hours of not sitting or sleeping during the Dance Marathon in February each year, and why they found it to be an honor. Later in the presentation, I finally realized why all of those, “veterans of ‘Thon could keep doing it year after year. The reason appeared before us in the - form of a seven year-old boy. He was one of the children who Penn State University helped through ‘Thon with successful results. He told about the various four-syllabled drugs that he had to take and some procedures that he had been through, and this seven year-old astonished me with a wisdom that surpassed what I believed to be within the extent of a seven year-old’s realm. His father stood up at the meeting and said, “Penn State means a good football team, or a place of academics to most people. To me, Penn State means life, because you have helped give me back life.” After hearing this, I was inspired to recruit everyone on campus to help raise money for children who are struggling with cancer. I am organizing a committee who will be aiding in the fundraising of this cause from now until February. This tradition is not only rich in the spirit of competition, but also provides hope for families who have to deal with unbearable hardships. Anyone interested in helping to help the children can contact me at jmjl61@psu.edu or (610) 892-1240. SE JoAnne Johnson voices students’ concerns at the Campus Community Meeting. Construction of the new technology center continues, funded in part by Operation Jump Start, Bell Atlantic PA and Boeing Helicopters. Campus Construction Continues!! Photo by Len Damico Campus Community Town Meeting Draws a Crowd By B Ray On Wednesday, October 1, students and members of the faculty gathered for a campus community town meeting in the lounge of the main building. On the agenda for the meeting was classroom behavior, yet it quickly expanded to the environment of the classroom in general. Everyone present formed into small groups consisting of a mix of students, staff and faculty members. They were given a worksheet and an open microphone to express themselves to the other groups. The response for both were great. The microphone was not moving fast enough across the room to the many people with very strong opinions on what is right and wrong in the classroom, and how it can be better. Of the many questions that stirred the most debate, the expectations of the teacher and other students in the classroom was definitely a hot topic. Suggestions Photo by Len Damico ranged from cooperation between instructor and student, an atmosphere of respect, professionalism, and preparation, to a strong work ethic. Also on thé agenda was examples of what has happened or what can happen to meet these expectations. The student congregation said they need enthusiasm from the ‘professor, availability during office hours, being involved in the learning process, being respected by the teacher, clear assignments, and an understanding of how it feels to be a student in 1997. Of course the teachers, while agreeing with the students, did have concerns with things like tardiness, excessive absences, constant disruptions, and a uncaring attitude. They also stressed that their doors are always open, and in the case they are not on campus, the learning center and the study-buddy program are viable options. From being at the meeting, it is obvious that most people here care, and with strong communication between student and teacher, the learning process can thrive at Delco. “Would You Stay at Delco If It Offered Your Major?” ¥ By Ryan Boldosser Marvin Curry (first semester, Urban. Ed.): “Yes, because Delco is close to Philadelphia and other schools are too expensive.” Photo by Ryan Boldosser Tracy Logan (third semester, Business): “No. | want to go to University Park. It is too small here and there are no dorms.” Photo by Ryan Boldosser John O’Hara (fourth year, second semester, Liberal Arts): “Yes, | would because it’s convenient to where | live. Also Penn State has a good reputation among the top universities in the U.S.” : Photo by Ryan Boldosser Dana Casey (second semester, Pre- Med): “Oh yeah. | would definitely graduate from this campus if they offered the same type of classes as they do at University Park.” Photo by Ryan Boldosser S|
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