By Zarek Wiley, Contributing Writer
As we approach the end of the school year, there are still many things to do before this year is in the books from Greek Week and Spring Fling to papers, finals and so much more. For those who have not yet heard, Spring Fling is scheduled to be held in the Union this year. No matter how you may feel about this decision, it is important to keep an open mind and give it a fair chance before rushing to judgement.
Student Government Association President Reid Boden said, “Spring Fling is something that has always been somewhat of a hit or miss within the student body, and it is something championed by Greek Life here on campus. Because this event traditionally marks the conclusion of Greek Week and the competitions that ensue over the course of the week, it is generally Greek Life that has dominated this event. Our success with the Homecoming dance on campus enabled us to somewhat earn our trust from our campus administrators here on campus, and ultimately led us to our decision to hold the Spring Fling Dance on campus this year.”
Indeed, Spring Fling does belong to Greek Life, but the question then becomes what is the appeal to having a dance on campus?
Boden said, “We wanted to experiment with how we could further provide activities for students on campus, while still maintaining a fiscally responsible budget for our clubs and organizations. I believe that there are a lot of safety benefits to having the Spring Fling dance on campus, just as there were a lot of benefits with having Homecoming on campus.”
The decision makes sense, there is no denying that, but the allure of going off campus was a big pull for many. However, holding Spring Fling on campus does have safety benefits. Most students will be within walking distance, and without the need to drive, this could significantly decrease the possibilities of accidents.
Overall, while I am disappointed with the dance not being held off campus, I think this new approach is something we should wait and see before we judge. At the end of the day, it is not the place or the songs that we will remember from this night; it is the friends and moments that we will look back on and treasure.
Spring Fling will be Friday, May 5.
Photo credit: Emily Salvatori
