My Letter of Support

I sent this to everyone on the list except Dean Baker. I'm really not sure what to say to him.

Chancellor Cantor,

Both of my parents were dedicated members of SUOC, a family tradition i intend to continue. We are strongly opposed to Dean Roy W. Baker's efforts to forcibly make SUOC a club sport. SUOC has functioned autonomously, with the support of SA for 70 years. I can see no reason to mangle a system which has evolved over the years into what I believe is one of the best opportunities for "experiential learning" Syracuse University has to offer. Dean Baker's attempt to ignore the will of both SUOC and SA so close to finals (when we students are a little preoccupied) and the end of the academic year (when we aren't here anymore to stop this) appears to be blatantly underhanded and malicious in its intent. I implore you to protect SUOC from being ruined by an ambiguous plan, the effects of which have not been remotely considered by its enactors. Even the obvious issue of equipment has not been adressed by Dean Baker. All of SUOC's equipment is the property of SA and valued at approximately $150,000. Despite having been asked repeatedly, Dean Baker has yet to give SUOC any specifics about what the relationship between SUOC and Recreational Services will be. I ask that you support us in our efforts to preserve our beloved organization from the damage it will suffer if this thoughtless scheme is forced upon us. Thank you for taking the time to consider my opinion. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to further discuss this issue.

Sincerely,
Benjamin W. Stephens
315.443.7940
839 Sadler Hall
1000 Irving Ave.
Syracuse NY 13210

PS According to the Club Sports Handbook, SUOC would have to be renamed The Outing Club at Syracuse University. OC@SU Doesn't exactly roll of the tongue.