Chatting about U. over chow

Amidst the clinking of silverware and the buzz of conversation in the Kings Court/English House dining commons yesterday afternoon, Assistant to the President Nicholas Constan "chewed the fat" with students. In his first of several open lunches, dinners and coffee hours, Constan listened to student concerns and solicited suggestions on improving the campus. Constan, who acts as a representative for Interim President Claire Fagin in these informal meetings, was approached by several students during the meal – who sat and chatted with him for an hour and a half. Asked what they think is wrong with the University, students discussed everything from the dwindling social life to racial tensions on campus. One student said he thinks the University is too segregated along racial lines, adding he would like to see randomized freshman housing. Constan, who had a pad of paper ready to write down suggestions, said while the idea is a valid one, the counter argument is that forcing people to integrate may cause uneasiness and discomfort that might have a negative effect on race relations. Another student suggested that more social events sponsored by the University could bring people together in a comfortable environment. The students who did talk with Constan said they thought the experience was a very positive one. "It was very interesting," Wharton freshman Annie Lam said after the lunch. "He was the first administrator that I've ever talked with. I think it's a really good way to open communication." Another student, Wharton freshman Rich Archer, said he thinks Constan's outreach is a good step forward for the administration. "It's a great idea in general," Archer said. "He was very open to all our suggestions. I'm glad I came." Constan said he volunteered for the project because he likes talking to and getting to know the students. He said it is one way the interim administration is trying to "get in touch with students." Fagin said this week she will try to attend some of the lunches and dinners, but does not know which ones she will attend. The next meeting in the "For the President's Ear" series will be breakfast at Hill House on Wednesday, October 20. On Monday, October 25, Constan will be at the 1920 Commons from 5:30 until 7 p.m. and on Monday, November 8, he will have a "coffee hour" from 3:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. in the Hall of Flags at Houston Hall.