Nov. 14, 2006
TO: Ohio State University students
FROM: Richard A. Hollingsworth, Vice President for Student Affairs
What an exciting time to be a Buckeye! Even if you're "just not that
into football," you have to know that Saturday's Ohio State-Michigan
match is a very special game. And, if you are a fan, well, it doesn't get
any better than this, does it?
I'm writing to urge you all to make sure it is a great weekend for you,
regardless of what the final score is. I don't think most of you need
another reminder to obey the law, party responsibly, and show good
sportsmanship. You're already on board with that. But, given the
stakes, I'm going to go on the record, just so everyone understands.
No amount of hype and excitement excuses violence or endangering
your own or others' safety. Any student who is arrested for a crime that
involves endangering people or property will find himself or herself on
immediate interim suspension from the university - which could ruin a
whole quarter's worth of academic progress, at a minimum. Under this
heading come such acts as throwing objects, setting fires, disorderly
conduct, vandalizing cars, assaults, rioting, resisting arrest, and
impeding safety officials in their duties. Students who host parties that
get out of control, who are bystanders at a disturbance (there are no
innocent bystanders), who encourage others to be disruptive, or who
fail to control their guests will also be immediately suspended. The risk
to your academic progress is real - eight students were expelled for
their actions in the 2002 riots following the Michigan game, and there
would have been more had the police been as prepared as they will be
this year.
Police will be enforcing the laws on and off campus, including those
restricting alcohol use. Columbus safety officials have told me that
there will be many undercover officers as well as those in uniform. This
is not the weekend to press your luck with law enforcement. Violators
may face arrest and jail time. If you drink, do so legally and
responsibly. For a refresher on party guidelines and state laws, go to
http://studentaffairs.osu.edu and click on the links in the Celebrate Like
Champs feature.
I hate to keep harping on the serious consequences of misbehavior
because I have faith that if you choose to participate in celebrations this
weekend, you will party hard but party safely. After all, you are
members of the best and brightest classes in Ohio State history - surely
too smart to ruin a great time with stupid decisions. For more thoughts
on the difference between celebrating with class and intelligence and
acting like an idiot, see my column in Wednesday's Lantern. I call it
Fan vs. Jerk.
The eyes of the nation are on us. It's a great opportunity to celebrate
with class and show everyone that Ohio State has the Best Fans in the
Land.
Rack this guy.