Rodin shares ideas on religious beliefs

Over a supper of both kosher and non-kosher cheese pizza, a group of about 40 students gathered in McClelland Hall yesterday evening to hear University President Judith Rodin speak on her religious views and beliefs. The discussion, which lasted about an hour, was part of a series entitled, "What Matters to Me and Why?" -- organized by the Religious Life Liaison Program. "I believe strongly in God," said Rodin, in her opening remarks. "I was raised in the Jewish tradition." The president then added that although she came from strong traditions and beliefs, her views were broader, drawing from other religions, people and daily interactions -- sets of experiences that were "transformative in thinking" to her. Rodin focused on the importance of valuing the present. "I don't believe in waiting 'til tomorrow to do what concerns me," she said. She also touched upon identity, talking about coming to terms with the different aspects of herself -- a combination of religious, gender and racial components. The discussion gave students a chance to ask a range of questions, from issues concerning the "mainstreaming of Christianity" and the appointment of John Ashcroft as attorney general to Rodin's views on the existence of an afterlife. Citing President Bush's new policies on federal funding for religious organizations, Rodin expressed her support for the possibility that such organizations will build communities, but cautioned against the possibility of those same groups excluding others based on their beliefs. "It's a minefield," she said, adding that Bush will have to be careful. Students also asked about the challenges of being both a woman and Jewish in modern day society. "The first year I was here, I was always the 'woman' president or the 'new' president," Rodin said, noting the need for society to be more tolerant of diverse individuals, whether they are of a different race or religion. Most students said they enjoyed last night's discussion with Rodin. "I was very impressed and a little surprised to see how frank she was, but I was very pleased at how forthcoming she was," said Religious Life Liaison Nausheen Jamal, a College junior. Many students said they just came to the discussion to get a chance to interact with Rodin on a more personal level. "I wanted to hear Dr. Rodin speak," said Rinat Becher, a College and Wharton sophomore. "I guess I want to see her views on [religion]."