Guilford's values will be key to healing
The following is a Counterpoint:
By Ann Witt
In response to Robert Bell's article (Jan. 28) about the recent disturbing events at Guilford College, I am here to state that I stand behind my alma mater all the way.
I graduated from Guilford in 1994, and those four years were the most formative and challenging of my life.
Guilford does embody the best of its values -- values that are Quaker in nature and that the school encourages you to take with you, to make universal. These attributes, the "peace and community, diversity, equality, integrity and justice" cited in the article, are taken seriously by the college.
I have never enjoyed, and will probably never enjoy again, the level of integrity found in my professors and many of my fellow students, in the school's overall day-to-day functioning.
Were these values found in everyone? No. Is Guilford a perfect school? No. Am I the same person I was when I graduated at 22? Most assuredly not. But the foundation the school gave me has been invaluable.
What allegedly happened to these Palestinian students is a tragedy and a terrible wounding for all concerned. There must be open dialogue and healing for the school to find its way forward. But this incident should not mar Guilford's reputation for years to come, for indeed it could have happened anywhere.
Unfortunately, it happened at Guilford. Yet, I have every faith the school will respond appropriately, that the people who make up a uniquely special community will do the right thing. This healing must and will be encouraged. I am proud to be a member of this community.
The writer lives in West Hartford, Conn.
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