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F&M
Franklin & Marshall College, which begins fall classes Wednesday, Sept. 1, perhaps has the most sweeping changes.
New president John Fry, who came to campus in 2002, has begun implementation of strategic plans to enhance the college’s image.
Two of the most significant changes are the re-recognition of Greek organizations on campus and the elimination of automobile privileges for first-year students.
But students also have a new bookstore and eateries on campus designed to enhance the school’s feeling of community.
Greek fraternities and sororities were de-recognized in 1988 with the intention that they’d eventually die out.
“But that didn’t happen,” said Marcy Dubroff, associate director of college relations.
While Greek membership waned in the intervening 16 years, Dubroff said many common problems associated with the organizations, such as poor academics, alcohol drinking and hazing, did not subside. and F&M’s de-recognition position left the school without a means to intercede.
Re-recognition proceeds under a new set of accountability guidelines developed over a 16-month review process and endorsed by faculty, Greek and college officials.
Another big change at campus is the elimination of car privileges for first-year students. Parking space availability was cited as the reason for the change. College officials estimate about half, or 250, of the members of the freshman class brought their cars to campus last year.
The college has about 1,500 parking spaces.
All upperclassmen will remain eligible for on-campus parking.
The college recently opened a Barnes & Noble bookstore and coffee house in the