Rodin leads preceptorial on public discourse

University President Judith Rodin discussed race relations and other issues with students last night in Civic House. Many students are excited when they are enrolled in a class with a popular professor, but this semester, 15 undergraduates had the unique opportunity to learn from University President Judith Rodin. Last night, 14 students gathered at Civic House for the final session of Rodin's preceptorial -- a three-part series entitled "Exploring Public Discourse." The group discussed race relations in America and their ideas about how society can engage in a constructive dialogue. "The debate and conversation have been lively and thoughtful," Rodin said of her experience with the students. Rodin, who serves as chairperson of the Penn National Commission on Society, Culture and Community, opened the conversation with her perceptions of affirmative action in relation to President Clinton's attempt to air a national dialogue on race. "In principle today, many people believe in affirmative action, but don't believe in the way [it] has been implemented in the United States," Rodin said. She stressed that issues such as affirmative action and racially motivated crimes need to be addressed honestly by Americans of all races, ethnicities, religions and economic backgrounds. But establishing that dialogue, according to the students, is easier said than done. Other students were disheartened because they felt establishing a dialogue would take too much time due to the complexity and sensitivity surrounding racial issues. But the group looked toward South Africa's national discussion of apartheid as a possible model. One student hoped that the United States could achieve this level of honesty in a national discourse and pointed to the racially motivated crime in Jasper, Texas, saying it prompted citizens to acknowledge that racism still exists. "Events create teachable moments where you can galvanize public discourse," Rodin explained. "The notion of valuing evidence is critical. Passion often undermines reasoned debate." Members of the group spoke enthusiastically about the personal and academic rewards they have gained from Rodin's teaching. College senior Carolyn Strom described Rodin's style as "fabulous at stimulating and directing conversation. She's poised, probing, non-pretentious." Rodin stayed after class last week for over 20 minutes to continue a discussion on the historical background of public discourse. "It's an unexpected surprise that [Rodin] sticks around to talk to us," College junior Max Norman said. "I had an image that she would get rushed off by two assistants at the strike of the clock." Admission to Rodin's preceptorial was competitive and based on applications to the Student Committee on Undergraduate Education. University Board of Trustees Chairperson Roy Vagelos is also leading a SCUE preceptorial this semester.