Summer 2003

Student Life

Letting Go While Staying Connected

by Lisa Roberts

Fairfield freshman start making connections at Parent Orientation, June 2003.

In the age of cell phones, e-mail, and instant messaging, "letting go" of college-age children is not what it used to be. Gone are the weekly long distance phone calls and the occasional handwritten letter home. Today, many college-age children communicate daily with their parents - on their own initiative and with little effort or expense.

It took a few days before Teresa and Sam DeMarzo got their first phone call from son Joe '05 when he was a Fairfield freshman, but the lines of communication have been open almost nightly ever since. As parents who understand the importance of self-sufficiency during the college years, the DeMarzos decided Joe's frequency of contact would be up to him and "waited it out" those first few days. Now they'll often log in at night and up will pop a window with a message from Joe, "Hey, how's it going?"

According to the New York Times article, "Parents' Role is Narrowing Generation Gap on Campus" (Jan. 16, 2003), Joe is part of a national trend of college students who "keep in close touch with their families, discussing matters big and small, academic and personal." This trend is fueled not only by wireless messaging that is as cost-effective as it is readily accessible, but by shifting expectations of baby boomers, a much more involved generation of parents than any before.

William P. Schimpf, vice president for student services, has witnessed this sea change of attitude during the past 34 years he has been at Fairfield. "Thirty years ago," says Schimpf, "far fewer parents were included. Both parent and child experienced the generation gap as much wider than they do today. That's due in part to the advent of the soccer moms and dads of the '90s, who simply didn't exist back in the '60s."

Still, most parents, students, and University administrators agree that the age of independence should begin in freshman year, with the goal of becoming one's own advocate - fully responsible for one's own decisions, behavior, and direction - by senior year. This goal is verbalized at Parent Orientation, where Schimpf fields questions from the floor from parents preparing to "let go" of their budding young adult child.

Through a number of programs, Fairfield University helps students acclimate to their new environment and newfound independence. "I felt the support system at Fairfield was plentiful and believe it helped Joe feel right at home. There was freshman orientation, and the First Year Experience groups, which help students find a little niche of people right away so they're not going to dinner alone that first week," says DeMarzo. "I call it a 'safety net.'"

DeMarzo is thrilled that her twins, Sam '07 and Christine '07, have chosen the same school as their older brother Joe, who just finished his sophomore year at Fairfield's Ignatian Residential College. "Fairfield is very student-friendly and very parent-friendly," says DeMarzo. "They're truly interested in us." She appreciates the ways in which the University reaches out to families - from events like Parents' Weekend, to the information that comes home, to phone calls from Parents Committee members and administration. At the same time, the University gets on with the business of teaching students self-sufficiency in myriad ways.

Many Fairfield parents find that there's a fine line between staying involved in their student's life and giving them the space they need to complete the all-important developmental task of separation. DeMarzo doesn't worry that Joe's frequent contact thwarts this stage. "It's just a normal, everyday part of life," she says. "No big deal. It's not like he stays on the phone for an hour or sends long e-mails. He just wants to know what's up, how was your day, everything good? And we'll say yeah, we're fine, just give us a holler if you need anything. And he does."

For DeMarzo, the overarching message she received during the two-day Parent Orientation in June was clear, and one she readily plans to pass on to her twin Fairfield freshman students. The message is that all the support Fairfield students need to become their own advocate is right here on campus - whether academic, spiritual, physical, social, or emotional. "The kids just need to seek out the resources themselves," says DeMarzo. "Visit the health center when needed, sit down with their academic advisor to discuss game plans, get involved in campus ministry. Like anything in life, what you seek is what you'll get."

Residential Life

A Safe Landing

by William P. Schimpf, vice president for Student Services

Each year I have the pleasure of addressing parents of incoming students during June orientation. At that time I reinforce the goal the University, parents, and students share of creating the independence and self-sufficiency necessary for your son or daughter to become their own advocate. For this goal to be achieved, and while we welcome input from you, the parent, it is the student with whom we must interact directly so that each grows in an awareness and responsibility for his or her own behavior.

During my summer talk I introduced you to many of the people and services that are available to assist your student as she or he undergoes this process of individuation. In our Q&A session, one pattern of concern that popped up over all others was the question of safety. Fortunately, that's an issue we take seriously at Fairfield. As you let go of your son or daughter, rest assured we're providing "a safe landing" here at 1073 North Benson Road. Here's what you can count on:

Fire Safety

Fairfield is far ahead of the norm on fire safety. Our excellent state-of-the-art fire detection system includes fire suppression sprinklers in all residential halls and apartments, and a smoke detector system that features addressable heads - a series of computerized mechanisms wired to a central computer designed to eliminate false fire alarms. All furniture is fire retardant, and there's a full-time fire marshal who works solely for the University.

Officer Patrol

There are 18 patrol officers, three security supervisors, five dispatchers, and two parking officers on campus. Our average patrol shift has four officers, and all receive ongoing training in crisis management. Each patrol shift has at least one EMT on duty at all times, so that a trained EMT can be anywhere on campus in about two minutes. Our officers carry automatic defibrillators in their patrol vehicles in case of heart failure. In addition, to increase the safety and security of our community, the Security Department uses 17 closed circuit television cameras (CCTV) to monitor and record public areas on campus and supplement patrol activity. As back-up, the Town of Fairfield has first-rate fire and police departments. State and local police have an open invitation and free access to campus. Finally, Fairfield University offers a 24/7 escort service (not a taxi service - officers often arrive on bike!) so students can feel safe on foot anywhere on campus at any time of day or night.

Residential Living

At Fairfield, most freshmen are admitted as resident students and are required to live on campus. All residential halls are locked 24/7 and are restricted by student ID access. Nevertheless, incidents of theft do happen; the tricky part is to reeducate students to lock their doors (most are not accustomed to locking their bedroom door at home). Guests (of the same sex) are welcome to stay overnight, but students are responsible for their behavior and are required to obtain a guest pass. If your child encounters any difficulties at all, encourage him or her to make use of the resources available: the Resident Assistant on the floor, the Residence Hall Coordinator in the building, and the Residence Life and Housing staff located in Gonzaga Hall. All are here to assist during tough times and to help students have the most positive residential experience possible.

Disciplinary Action

What happens when a student breaches the University's code of conduct? A written report is submitted to the Judicial Office and the student involved is required to make an appointment to discuss the report. Parents of students under the age of 21 will be notified if their children are found responsible for University violations, such as infringements of the alcohol or drug policies. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), this notification usually occurs in writing and is after the disciplinary process has been completed. Fines, service hours, probation, and educational programs are some of the sanctions used in the disciplinary process. Please review the student code-of-conduct with your child, which is in the Student Handbook (available as a CD and online). The policies and disciplinary process are also available on the University web site. Fortunately, most students who have a disciplinary incident do not have repeat violations.

Driving

Freshmen are not permitted to have cars on campus. Moreover, through an arrangement with the town, no member of the University community may park on the neighborhood streets adjacent to the campus. Freshmen who violate the policy will forfeit their ability to register a car in subsequent years. Temporary parking permits at the end of the year or near holidays are not available. Parents are reminded to consult the University Calendar for closing dates and times of residence halls.

Health Center

When your child is not feeling well, who will he or she call? Ext. 2241, the University Health Center. Taking care of one's own health is an integral part of the process of becoming one's own advocate. Because students are over the age of 18, we are not permitted to notify parents when they visit the Student Health Center, which is open 24/7 and has a registered nurse on duty at all times. While we strongly encourage students to notify parents during illnesses and injuries, we respect their right to privacy on all health matters. Should your student - by habit - call home sick, please give them our number, ext. 2241, and just ask them to give us a call. We are closer, we care, and we have the remedy!

Many more student services - from peer tutoring to mental health counseling to academic skills development - are readily available to your son or daughter.

Parents' Weekend

Join us for a personal and powerful experience.

Look for your invitation to Parents' Weekend in the mail shortly. In the meantime, mark your calendars: October 25 & 26, 2003.

• Registration in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts lobby, 9 a.m.
• President's Welcome: Aloysius P. Kelley, S.J., Fairfield University President, will provide a warm welcome to all parents and families.
• Program sessions
• Buffet lunch at the Barone Campus Center
• Parents' Weekend Mass
• Junior Ring Ceremony (following Mass)
• Dinner (look for a list of local restaurants with your invitation)
• Evening entertainment
• Sunday brunch
• Glee Club Parents' Weekend Concert
• Alpha Sigma Nu Induction Ceremony
• And more - keep yourself posted at:
  

Residential Life

Ignation Residential College Update

The 2002-03 academic year saw the Ignatian Residential College - a residential college for sophomores where the topic of vocation could be addressed through academic, religious, cultural, and social exploration - move into full operation. While the original plan was to include 75 students the first year and 135 the second, initial interest was extremely high among Fairfield students, resulting in an inaugural group of 135 participants. For 2003-04, the entire residence hall has been filled, housing 208 students and putting 41 on a waiting list.

What also exceeded expectations was the sense of community that evolved from students living and taking classes together. According to Therese Lederer and Joe DeFeo, co-associate directors of the Ignatian Residential College, students felt right at home in the residence hall, and would often be found together in groups of 10 to15 late at night, studying for a test the next day or working on a project together. Ignatian Residential College alumni are actively staying involved, with some participating in further grant fundraising and others filling current RA positions.

Students, faculty, and administrators alike wish Fr. Tom Regan well as he begins his appointment as Provincial at the Jesuit New England Province, and thank him for his efforts in bringing the Ignatian Residential College to fruition.

The 2003-04 Parents' Handbook, containing answers to questions parents most frequently ask, is at your fingertips at Fairfield University's home page, www.fairfield.edu. From the home page, click on Student Services, then click on For Parents and look for the handbook icon or printable PDF file when the page has finished loading. If you do not have Internet access, please call (203) 254-4004 to obtain a printed copy of the Handbook.

Junior Class Ring Ceremony

Students who ordered class rings during their sophomore year will receive them at the junior class ring ceremony following Parents' Weekend mass on Saturday, Oct. 25. This year, Aloysius P. Kelley, S.J., university president, will bless the rings during the mass, which starts at 4 p.m. in Alumni Hall. The ring ceremony, sponsored by the Fairfield University Alumni Association and Jostens Ring Co., will follow at 5 p.m. in the Barone Campus Center Oak Room. If you have questions about the ring ceremony, contact Matt Dinnan, associate dean of students, at (203) 254-4000, ext. 3288, or mdinnan@mail.fairfield.edu. For more information on the rings, Susan Cunniff, the Jostens representative, can be reached at (508) 543-8737.

Parents' Committee

A Chance to Connect ... A Time to Reflect

Jim and Denise Paul, P'03, '05, co-chairs of the 2003-04 Parents' Fund.

Nothing quite prepares parents for the rush of emotions that overcome them as tearful good-byes are exchanged at the beginning of freshman year. Jim and Denise Paul, P'03, P'05, co-chairs of the 2003-04 Parents' Committee, know that moment and those feelings all too well.

"I think I experienced every emotion in the book," Jim says, "but the fact that our daughters were at Fairfield and thrilled to be there offered the comfort I needed. We are strong believers in education that is enriched by the values of the Catholic Church and have actively supported Catholic education all our lives."

That's why the Pauls are pleased and proud to lead the Parents' Committee and support the Fairfield University Parents' Annual Fund. "As parents, those of us who are able to make a gift to the Annual Fund, at any level, help ensure the continued growth of the University and the high standards that benefit our children now," Jim continues.

Through their participation as volunteers and annual fund donors, parents become true partners in their children's education without infringing on their son's or daughter's new independence as a college student. Most important, they make a connection with their child that adds value to their tuition investment.

The Parents' Committee is about leadership, communication, and challenge. As committee members, our parent leaders reach out to the entire community of Fairfield parents in search of support for the Parents' Annual Fund. Composed of a dynamic group of 40 parents, the committee also hosts small events in a variety of geographic areas, provides resource information, and serves as a liaison between the University's senior administration and parents. A second group of parents, the Parent Communication Team, helps by making telephone calls to encourage attendance at Fairfield parent events.

"As parents, we have been touched by the unique sense of community we feel each time we visit Fairfield," says Jim. "Beginning with freshman orientation and Parents' Weekend, and through our involvement with the Parents' Committee, we've had special opportunities to connect with our daughters and share, in some way, their college experience."

"Our commitment to Fairfield is heartfelt," Denise says, "and we will always be grateful for what the past four years have meant to our daughter Kate," a 2003 cum laude graduate of the Dolan School of Business. "As important as her academic endeavors and achievements, Kate was deeply influenced by the unique charisma of the Jesuits, their mission, and the value of her Catholic faith." Kate was a regular at Father Paul Carrier's Monday 10 p.m. community mass, and her parents are very proud of the competent, considerate, and compassionate young woman she has become. The Pauls also believe that daughter Tina, a nursing major in the class of '05, will bring a unique sense of caring service to her profession, influenced by her Fairfield experience.

The Pauls' hope is to cultivate a culture of giving among parents of current Fairfield students. On a crisp, sunny afternoon this past May, at the Baccalaureate Mass for Fairfield's Class of 2003 graduates, an excerpt from Father Carrier's homily resonated strongly with those present and especially with the Pauls:

"As we reflect on this message," say the Pauls, "we realize how relevant it is to the task before us, and we ask all Fairfield parents to recognize the qualities so unique to Fairfield University by joining us in support of the Parents' Fund."

For more information on the Parents' Committee and the Parents' Annual Fund, please contact Claudia B. Nielsen, associate director for annual giving - Parents' Fund, at (203) 254-4004, or cnielsen@mail.fairfield.edu.

Did you know that the Annual Fund is an essential component of Fairfield's operating budget, since only 81% of the University's expenses are covered by tuition? Many families make significant sacrifices to pay tuition, but when they stretch even more to make a gift to the Parents' Fund, they demonstrate astute awareness of how far that extra payment goes in providing the best possible educational experience for their child. Like an extra payment with the monthly mortgage bill, that Annual Fund gift along with the tuition bill is a fiscally sound investment.

Parents' Fund donors contributed more than $385,000 to Fairfield University in 2002-03 - a $130,000+ increase over the previous year, with a 65 percent increase in the number of parent donors. With your support, we can reach or exceed that goal - in dollars and numbers - again. Each and every gift helps to enhance your Fairfield student's current education and future career aspirations by building on your family's commitment to Fairfield.

Please send your gift today to:
The Fairfield University Parents' Fund
1073 North Benson Road, Bellarmine 321
Fairfield, CT 06824-5195

Thank You.

Tech Time

Network Upgrades in Residence Halls

Summers at Fairfield are not as quiet as you would think. After the students return home to enjoy their break, the University shifts into high gear, using this time to pursue many short-term projects that cannot be completed while school is in session.

During summer 2003, one of those tasks was the computer network connection upgrade project in the residence halls. Jogues, Dolan, Loyola, and Campion halls joined Regis Hall and the townhouses in housing brand new 10/100 Mbps network connections. Two terrific benefits to students are results of this project. In the past, students in these residence halls needed to use a costly network connection kit to have computer access to the Internet. One benefit is that now students can use a simple CAT-5 connection cable, and although there is still some software configuration that has to take place, connecting the computer to the network jack is as easy as plugging in a telephone.

The other benefit is increased Internet connection speed. The previous fiber optic system provided a 10 Mbps shared connection; in other words, there were two users sharing one 10 Mbps connection. The new connection allows each student to have a personal connection to the Internet, with connection speeds up to 100 Mbps, depending on the capacity of the student's network card and network traffic.

Student Life

Other Connections

Is getting connected all about wireless communication? Not at Fairfield! Here are other ways students "get connected" - and get a life - on campus:

First Year Experience (FYE) Program

The First Year Experience Program provides an opportunity for first year students to meet and discuss college transitional issues in a relaxed setting with two upper class facilitators and a University faculty or staff resource person. The small group meetings take place once a week for the first eight weeks of school. In addition to forming life-long relationships with fellow students, the students discuss various transitional issues and become connected with campus life at the meetings.

The SKILL Initiative

S.K.I.L.L. is a program targeted towards new and emerging student leaders. Offered by the department of University activities during spring semester, this eight-week course gives first and second year students an opportunity to learn about and develop leadership qualities that relate to the Jesuit experience. The acronym S.K.I.L.L stands for Service, Knowledge, Integrity, Literacy, and Linkages.

Big Brother/Big Sister Program

The Center for Multicultural Relations offers a variety of programs, services, and activities designed to create a friendly and supportive environment for students. This program is designed to provide first year students an opportunity to meet and interact with members of the Fairfield University community in casual and supportive situations. The Academic component includes the development of a Personal Success Plan for each first year AHANA student, who is encouraged to meet with faculty members and, through the Academic Advantage Program, participate in group study sessions. The social component is coordinated by student leaders and supervised by the AHANA Student Advisor. AHANA first year students have a chance to develop a supportive relationship with a big brother or big sister and an adult mentor. Social activities include:

• Big Brother/Big Sister Day - August 30, 2003
• The AHANA Student Welcome - September 18, 2003
• Trips to New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia, as well as roller-skating, and bowling - October 2003 through April 2004
• Horizon's Weekend - April 17-18, 2004

Student Organizations at Fairfield

Over 75 registered student organizations are available. Being involved with a student organization offers yet another way to get connected to campus life. Whatever the student's interests may be, there is a campus club that can accommodate the interest. Stop by the student activities office in the Barone Campus Center for more details.

What's New at Fairfield U?

Better Eats!

The second phase of Fairfield's renovation of the snack bar area is well under way, with the unveiling of Sky Ranch Grill in July and Bob & Iggy's Pizza in September, both located at the Barone Campus Center. Home of the "Blue Sky Burger," the Sky Ranch Grill features specialty burgers and chicken, with all items using fresh ingredients that are cooked and delivered the day of service. Bob & Iggy's Pizza will feature a great pizza and pasta product, using upgraded equipment. Behind the new name for this section of the snack bar is St. Robert (Bob) Bellarmine, the patron saint of the University, and St. Ignatius (Iggy) Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.

Focus on Faculty

Sophomore Symposium, Virtual Traders, Etiquette, and Real Estate Courses

Woman of Distinction

Dr. Ellen Umansky, director of Fairfield University's Carl and Dorothy Bennett Center for Judaic Studies, was honored as the first "Woman of Distinction" at a luncheon given by the Women's Auxiliary of the Jewish Home for the Elderly of Eastern Fairfield County on June 2, 2003, at Rolling Hill Country Club in Westport, Conn.

Sophomore Symposium

This fall, Dean Timothy Law Snyder will be holding the second Sophomore Symposium, created to inform students of resources and opportunities available to them as well as the College's expectations of them as responsible members of an academic community.

Virtual Traders

The Dolan School of Business hosted a mock trading competition on April 5, 2003, using recently acquired software. Finance professor Michael Tucker offered cash prizes to the top traders, and while 18 students were in attendance, the top prize went to the only female student who came, Elizabeth Frolin '05.

Etiquette Dinner

On February 19, 2003, the School hosted its second annual etiquette dinner, inviting Ann Marie Sabath, founder of At Ease Inc. and author of six books on etiquette, to give students a "competitive edge" on the marketplace. Sabath spent the evening coaching students on a variety of skills in an effort to hone their personal presentation in the all-important social realm of business.

Real Estate Program

With a robust housing market remaining one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal economy, University College is offering a program for anyone interested in a career in real estate. "Real Estate Principles and Practices" is a 12-session program that will run from September 9 through October 14, 2003, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and will be taught by Jerry Whitson, B.Ed., M.Ed., Washburn University, a certified residential specialist with a headmaster certificate, Harvard University. Sessions on the real estate market, buyer and seller representation, ethical practice, fair housing, agency, and Connecticut Law will be covered.

Student Spotlight

A Junior-Year FUSA President

The Fairfield University Student Association is Fairfield's official undergraduate student government. Headquarters are in the newly-renovated Barone Campus Center, and all undergraduate students are automatically members of FUSA.

Leading this year's efforts is Kevin Neubauer '05, a junior and sociology major from Providence, R.I. As president of FUSA, Kevin plans to: make teacher evaluations available to students before registration; bring back the "Red Sea," a basketball game cheering squad; work with Sodexho, the University's food service contractor, to provide new menu items; and establish additional weeknight programming.

Kevin's election during his sophomore year is unusual for Fairfield, but he feels that what he lacks in experience he gains in congruity, as he'll be in closer contact with students of all ages during his presidency. Plus, he'll have to live with his "legacy" during his senior year on campus, and that gives him extra motivation to push the envelope.

All students are welcome to become active in FUSA or any of the over 75 clubs and organizations on campus. Getting involved at Fairfield can have a life-long impact on a student's sense of self, social circle, and more.

Parent to Parent

In what ways and how often do you "stay connected" to your Fairfield student?

We'd love to hear from you - send your response to:

parentties@mail.fairfield.edu

Want to stay in the loop? E-mail us so we can keep you posted in case there's an emergency at the University. Just send a quick hello to:

parentties@mail.fairfield.edu

The Advancement division of Fairfield University publishes Parent Ties three times a year for parents of undergraduate students. Letters to the editor, address changes, and correspondence should be sent to:

Parent Ties
Bellarmine Hall Room 318
Fairfield University
1073 North Benson Road
Fairfield, CT 06824-5195
e-mail: parentties@mail.fairfield.edu

Editor
Lisa M. Roberts

Editorial Committee
Claudia B. Nielsen
Eileen Bossone
Jim and Denise Paul, P'03, '05
Clare Schimpf '76