Parkhurst Sit-In Ends

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The small group of students who staged a two-day sit-in at Parkhurst Hall left the main administrative building of their own accord on Thursday afternoon.

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Dartmouth President Phil Hanlon ’77 and Dean of the College Charlotte Johnson, who both met with the students, informed them that the College would undertake an external campus-wide climate survey, as had been earlier recommended by faculty, students, and staff on the Committee on Student Safety and Accountability.

President Hanlon and Dean Johnson also encouraged the group to meet with administrative leaders responsible for budget oversight as a way to discuss items in the students’ “Freedom Budget” document. The document listed a number of actions the students demanded from the administration. The students say they are seeking greater inclusiveness and a more welcoming environment on campus.

The students face a disciplinary hearing and sanctions for trespassing, a violation of College policy.

Hanlon and Johnson encouraged students to take a constructive approach to what they see as problems and discuss their concerns with senior administrators and faculty members involved in areas in which the students say they would like to see change.

“Our academic community is built on a foundation of open and respectful dialogue,” says Hanlon. “Participating in discussions and the processes we have in place is the most effective way to make change.”

Hanlon detailed for the students significant investments and new initiatives begun this year at Dartmouth to support diversity, access, and inclusion. These exceed what has been seen in previous years, he noted.

Hanlon and Johnson say they look forward to the campus working constructively with the students in the days ahead.

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