September 10, 2004: Volume 62, Number 1

Minerva Houses: "Make Them Yours"

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

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