EDITORIAL: Consultation is necessary

The University must actively consult with the campus community as it works to develop a new alcohol policy. The temporary ban on alcohol -- implemented in late March -- ignited a massive student protest as hordes of students demanded consultation over the decisions made regarding this issue. To give the administration credit, they did engage in a lengthy consultation process after the initial implementation of the ban. Provost Robert Barchi met frequently with a group of faculty member and student leaders in order to create a list of recommendations for a new alcohol policy. This group then sought out the opinions of the campus community. But the question now is which of these recommendations will be adopted. The answer will affect the entire student body. University President Judith Rodin decided to review the committee's recommendations and consult with various constituents on the alcohol policy until June 30. As that date draws closer, it is difficult to gauge just how much consultation is actually occurring in College Hall. Granted, it is summer and there are fewer students on campus, but Penn officials must make an effort to reach out to the University community and engage in conversation. Because the alcohol policy is one of few issues that students universally care about, the University must endeavor to keep students informed on their decisions regarding any changes and developments they decide to make. Students want to know exactly what the new policy will entail, who it will affect and what events or activities it will impact. The administration undoubtedly does not want a repeat of the student uprising that occurred in the spring. They say that they are speaking with students and are inviting comment via e-mail. But with approximately three weeks left in the outlined time span, Penn officials needs to do everything possible to make sure they have thoroughly reviewed the recommendations and conferred with a wide range of groups. We urge the University to use the upcoming weeks to review the proposals so that they ultimately develop a clear alcohol policy that does not in any way surprise or confuse the student body.