April 3, 2012

To the Boston University Community:

The Boston University Student Union, the undergraduate student government of Boston University, believes all students should embody our community’s high standards of excellence – to exemplify the university motto of “Learning, Virtue, and Piety.” Therefore, we expect our student leaders to set the standard high for integrity, ethics, and respect, so as to foster a community atmosphere that continually enhances the undergraduate experience.

This academic year, it has become apparent that the judgments of some student leaders have failed to fulfill these basic, fundamental expectations.

Our undergraduate community has reiterated that they will not tolerate members who establish a culture of disrespect. Most recently, the decision by editors of The Daily Free Press (an independent, student-produced publication) to distribute an offensive April Fool’s Day issue has generated a backlash that redoubles our commitment to building a community of respect, and of simple human compassion.

As peers, we must continue to come together and reaffirm our commitment to acting in a constructive manner that fosters and perpetuates shared community and pride. We must move forward with a spirit of forgiveness and progress to become the best we can be. It is our responsibility to represent our peers at Boston University in a way that you, our community, our alumni, prospective students and the outside community will hold in esteem.

Be a better Boston University – one you’re proud to be a part of.

With Best Regards,

Howard B. Male, President
Boston University Student Union