UA discusses American Sign Language, shuttles and drainage

On Sunday, the Undergraduate Assembly mulled over a policy update addressing the exclusion of American Sign Language from the Wharton language requirement before moving to internal affairs.

While both the College and Nursing recognize ASL as a valid language for the requirement, Wharton does not.

Wharton freshman Andrew Roberts and College sophomore and UA member Michael Chen brought the policy update before the UA for support and guidance from the student group as they move forward.

Roberts described the policy as both "discriminatory and misguided," and he questioned Wharton's aversion to ASL. He also cited a list of several business schools around the country that accept ASL.

To demonstrate ASL's status as a "different language," G.J. Melendez-Torres, a Nursing and Wharton sophomore and UA member, served as the ASL interpreter for the night, signing the translated version of the discussion.

The policy has already received support from Penn Language Center Acting director Lada Vassilieva and ASL Program coordinator Jami Fisher.

According to Roberts, Wharton director of Academic Advising Scott Romeika explained that Wharton does not accept ASL as it is not an international language and does not aid global education.

"Our goal right now is to get on the agenda of the board of Wharton faculty," said Roberts. "It's the only way we can change policy."

Several members suggested that the presenters advance the policy update into a proposal. After a quick recess for discussion, however, Roberts expressed concern at alienating individuals at such a stage.

The UA also addressed a policy update on a potential shuttle to the King of Prussia mall and passed a proposal on the spring break airport shuttle.

College junior and UA member Lucia Liu has attended discussions with the Harrison College House Council about the possibility of the UA cosponsoring a bus with the House Council to King of Prussia and possibly Costco.

Debate on the spring break shuttle proposal mainly addressed UA member obligations, including the absence penalty for missed shifts.

The Sustainability, Safety and Facilities Committee has made progress on two campus initiatives, both slated to be completed by Fall 2009.

The projects include improved drainage to prevent flooding on Locust Walk, particularly around 1920 Commons, and the installation of extra lighting in the off-campus area between Lombard and Pine streets to 44th Street.

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.