Rodin celebrates 50th birthday at rally

Although University President Judith Rodin tried to play down her 50th birthday, red and blue balloons greeted her yesterday at a celebration for students and staff on College Green. Rodin initially hoped the rally would be used to welcome the University community back to campus, but said she was overwhelmed when the focus was turned on her. Joined by University Provost Stanley Chodorow, Rodin ushered in the new school year with encouraging words and colorful fanfare. But Undergraduate Assembly President Dan Debicella and Graduate and Professional Student Assembly Chairperson David Mestre stole the spotlight with a loud, light-hearted rendition of "Happy Birthday." Although Rodin's birthday is actually today, she did not ruin the fun for party-goers yesterday. "I think it's a mean trick to start school on the president's birthday," Rodin said, refusing to reveal her age to audience members. "But what I really wanted to do was have a welcoming party for the students." "For the last nine months, I have been waiting for this opportunity with a tremendous amount of excitement and great anticipation," she added. The several hundred students in attendance were treated to soft pretzels, bright red Italian ices and pieces of the "Happy Birthday Judith" cake. A recording of the Penn Band played during the hour and a half celebration, organized by several University offices, including the office of University Life and the president's office. "This is really great," said Maristelle Maulit, a resident specialist in the University's Medical School. "It's especially nice to make new students feel welcome." College senior Eric Stock agreed. "Rodin has really shown that she's committed to the students," he said. "I think [she and Chodorow] are awesome." The afternoon began with an introduction by acting Vice Provost for University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum and proceeded with short speeches by both Rodin and Chodorow. "Could you imagine -- any of you sitting here as undergraduates -- that you might come back and be president of this University?" Rodin asked. "I sure didn't. This is a homecoming that is the stuff that dreams are made of." She explained that students must accept the challenge of taking advantage of all the University has to offer. "Penn has a daring of spirit and soul that I really think sets it apart," she added. "It is also a place of great privilege and a place of great opportunity and that brings with it an enormous responsibility."