The Lawn selection process often causes tension among its many applicants despite its intention to bring the University community together. Last night, Student Council passed a bill by a voice vote to establish an ad hoc committee to review the current Lawn selection process.
Outgoing Council Executive Vice President Adam Swann and third-year College Rep. Sarah Jobe sponsored the bill.
The issue provoked a great deal of debate from both Council members and members of the University community. Three students provided their views during the community concerns portion of last night's Council meeting.
Fourth-year College student John Clark cited numerous flaws in the current system, such as the issue of self-selection by over-represented organizations, the lack of black representation on this year's selection committee and politicking by selection committee members and applicants.
"I don't think it happens very often but the potential for abuse is there," Clark said. "There are certain recognized tracks for getting on the Lawn."
Fourth-year College student Erin Perucci, a Cavalier Daily columnist and member of this year's selection committee, echoed many of Clark's views.
Trish Morrow, head Lawn resident and chairwoman of this year's Lawn selection committee - although she did not get a vote - spoke in favor of the bill's ideals, but not its actual execution.
"I support their goals but I don't feel an ad hoc committee is the solution at this time," Morrow said. "It is sad the Lawn selection process is divisive, but I believe the [Vice President for Student Affairs] committee should meet first."
The VPSA Office plans to meet soon to discuss the current Lawn selection process, independent of Council's efforts.
Some Council members expressed qualms about the bill's implementation.
"Though I am speaking con to the resolution, I am in favor of making changes to the process," Council President Abby Fifer said. "I believe a bit more thought needs to go into it."
Each year, the 35 Lawn selection committee members have a week to read through the over 200 applications they receive. Committee members then individually/privately vote for 47 applicants, the number of non-endowed Lawn rooms available annually. The votes are tallied and the committee then offers Lawn rooms to the 47 applicants who receive the highest number of votes.
Graduating students apply for a spot on the Lawn Selection Committee. The Lawn Selection Steering Committee narrows the applicants to a pool from which the Lawn selection committee members will be drawn randomly.
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