| To The Editor |
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| Written by Brian J. Staley | ||||
| Friday, 29 February 2008 | ||||
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To the Editor, The Eastern entrance to the University, years ago, held a sign proclaiming to every undergraduate student entering the campus; “Enter to Learnm Go Forth to Serve”, in stark black letters against a plain white background. The values extolled in these seven simple words, and the sign itself, seem to be missing if a recent visit to campus and a casual conversation with a current undergraduate are any indication. In the place of heartfelt service there appears to be a rush to whatever cause célèbre will, hopefully, catch the attention of the reader of a résumé accompanying an application to a graduate program, doctoral program, or other choice of furthering one’s education. “The hallmark of a liberal arts education”, Professor Margaret Howe used to remind us weekly in the drafty rooms of old South Hall, “is preparing you for life not only in the context of your nine to five career but also in your five to nine life of appreciation of the humanities, involving youtself in service, and leaving the world a better place than when you arrived”. The Shouldice library displays portraits of those Distinguished Professors, both past and present, who personify the adage of being remembered for things done in the service of others rather than the things done as self promotion. The portraits, and those seven simple words, should serve as a daily reminder to look to the needs of others and, hopefully, place sacrifice for greater good over the need for recognition for the individual. Many valuable lessons are learned in the world of undergraduate education at Lake Superior State and the message gained in passing that sign day after day has served me well over the years. Modern mission statements drafted by committees, slogans provided by consultants, and résumé by following cause after fashionable cause may have their place but great ideas, historically, seem to be simple, direct, and effective. If the sign cannot be replaced I would challenge the Compass to print those seven wonderful words as a banner in each issue of the paper as a reminder of the obligation that accompanies the privilege of education. “Enter to learn. Go Forth to Serve”. I can think of no better challenge to to students currently enrolled as undergraduates at Lake Superior State University. Brian J. Staley  Add as favourites (0)
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