The College launched the Minerva
Houses on Tuesday, Sept. 7, with an outdoor celebration that included color, food,
chocolates, music, a spectacular sunset and a surprise visit from two ice cream
trucks.
The College community assembled in
seven tents – one for each Minerva House – for what may have been the largest
single dinner in recent College history, serving nearly 1,600, according to
Dining Services. Afterward, students and faculty followed the Schenectady Pipe Band to an
outdoor convocation (also a first) in Library
Plaza.
“Before I begin, turn around and
take a look at the sunset coming through the Nott Memorial,” President Roger
Hull said before his remarks.
Quoting education innovator
Eliphalet Nott, inaugurated 200 years ago as Union's
president, Hull said, “a college
must never be stationary, but always progressive.
“The Minervas,” Hull
said, “will provide both additional residential and social opportunities and
exciting ways to enrich the intellectual life on campus.
“The Minervas are your houses.
Although many millions of dollars went into the houses, the administration will
not manage them. You – students and faculty – will. Make them yours.”
To read the full text of President Hull's address, please visit: http://www.union.edu/About/President/09_2004.php