Many students dedicate hours of their time to the betterment of student life. These students are elected by their peers to represent them to the administration and the faculty. They are servants of the people; they are members of Student Government. The motto of SG this year is to “Bring U Back to UM”.
Student Government is made up of three different branches. First there is the Executive Branch, which is made up of the president, vice president, and the treasurer, and an extension of the executive branch is the Cabinet.
The Cabinet is made up of appointed students. The Cabinet consists of committees that deal with issues ranging from Parking and Safety to Athletics.
The next branch of Student Government is the Senate. The Senate is made up of elected and appointed students. Students can be elected based on constituency. For example, there are academic class senators, school and college senators and residential senators.
The Speaker of the Senate chairs the Senate. Senate deals with all legislative issues of Student Government. Legislation deals with academic recommendations, money allocation and much more.
The last branch of Student Government is the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is made of six justices, and is chaired by the Supreme Court chief justice. The Supreme Court oversees all of SG, and makes sure its legislation adhere to the SG Constitution.
The University of Miami administration let Student Government play an active role with most decisions made concerning the university. There are student representatives, appointed by Student Government, on all major committees that deal with student affairs.
Last year, Student Government played a vital role in ensuring a student vote on the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees oversees major decisions at the University. It is very uncommon to see a private institution give rights to a student to sit on their board.
Another one of SG major accomplishments was the implementation of Ibis Ride, the shuttle to Coconut Grove. Last year, the shuttle ran only on Saturday nights, between the hours of 8 pm and 3:30 am. This year, Student Government President Michael Johnston has successfully petitioned to have Ibis Ride run Fridays and Saturdays.
Another project Student Government implemented was an awards program. Student Government feels that high academic success should be rewarded. So, all students who received a 4.0 were given cards that gave them 10 percent discount at the University of Miami bookstore.
One of Student Government’s youngest organizations has come on more forceful than ever. This year Category 5 (Cat 5) has come with a full hurricane force, ready to enrich all Canes with Hurricane Spirit and Pride. During orientation, every student will be asked what Category 5 means? The answer: Category 5 is the strongest force of a hurricane!
Cat 5 was created twp years ago to promote spirit and love for the Alma Mater. It hold multiple pep rallies, trips to away games and events all over campus. This past summer, Cat 5 paid for an installation of a sound system on the University Center rock. The rock is one of the most central places on campus and events are held their daily.
Student Government is a great way to get involved and meet new people. There are more than 120 members, and every one of them bleeds orange and green. If you are looking to get involved, e-mail Student Government President Michael Johnston at johnston@umiami.edu or call the SG office at 305-284-3082.

As part of the Parking Management Plan, finding a parking spot on or around campus will be a little easier this fall, according to officials.

The $16.5 million plan has increased the number of parking spaces by 20 percent, adding a total of 1,764 spots and offers 1,800 new discount spaces, officials said.

“It’s going to be the biggest parking change in the history of the University,” Associate Vice President of Business Services Alan Fish said. “This is tremendous-the biggest thing ever in parking.”

“We are dramatically changing the landscape of parking here at the University of Miami,” Director of Parking and Transportation Services Charles McConnell said, “for the better.”

The Red Road South and North lots and Liguria lot have been completed, and still have plenty of open spaces.

“In all likelihood people are taking the path of least resistance,” McConnell said. “The Liguria lot is the next closest lot, and then likewise Red Road South and North, so ultimately it will fill up.”

“Parking habits have to be developed,” Fish said. “People usually try to park in the same area all the time. We’re making it very attractive for people to park there.”

Students will be enticed to park on the perimeter of campus this fall by the addition of the 1,800 discount spaces, officials said.

“We’re going from about 200 discount spaces to 1800 at a rate of $174,” Fish said. “Now, the going rate is $274, so it’ll be $100 less than the going rate.”

“There’s a decal, a discount decal,” Associate Director of Business Services Sandra Redway said, “just like you have a commuter or a resident one there’s a discount one and once you purchase a discount one, it qualifies you to park in any of the discount lots.”

While the rate to park on the core of the campus will increase next year, officials feel the $100 discount will attract students to park on the perimeter.

“We had a committee and we basically went through this whole scenario,” Fish said. “Will they park out there for $10 savings? No. Twenty-dollar savings? No. Thirty-dollar savings? No. When we got to $100, a lot of students said, ‘that’s a significant amount of savings from parking on the core of campus. That’s less than I’m paying today.’ We think it’s going to be very, very attractive.”

This biggest discount lot is the Ponce Garage, which has been expanded from 628 spots to 1,052, according to officials.

The new Pavia Garage houses 561 spots and the Pearson Garage has been expanded to hold 636 cars, officials said.

The garages offer 24-hour security, emergency blue light phones and shelter from the elements.

“It’s going to mean less ticketing,” Fish said. “When you have parking spaces there’s less tickets. Our goal has always been to write less tickets. That’s one of the things we benchmark and measure in our continuance to improvement programs.”

Additional Hurry Cane shuttle stops and two more buses have been added to accommodate the surplus in perimeter parking, Fish said.

“With the convenience of the shuttle,” McConnell said, “I’d really like to see the students save the money verses what they’re spending right now on a commuter pass and go ahead and use these lots out here.”

The university, parking permits, and the athletic department footed the $16.5 million price tag, Fish said.

“The athletic department has made a significant contribution,” Fish said, “which we are very grateful for as part of the Parking Management Plan.”

The contribution from the athletic department was part of the Convocation Center construction and the new lots will come in handy for Convocation Center events, Fish said.

“The off times for [school] parking are the on times for [Convocation] Center events,” Fish said.

“The key,” Redway said, “is the way in which the events will be staggered relative to our parking demand.”

Event parking fees will be figured in to the price of Convocation Center ticket prices, Fish said.

A Change In U… Cause it’s Time, was the slogan publicized all over the University of Miami campus with the names Michael Johnston, Justin Levine, and Mahala Dar attached. These are the names of the 2002-2003 Student Government Executive officers.

“I am really excited for the upcoming year, it is going to be great,” exclaimed Student Government President Michael Johnston.

President Johnston has had a long tenure in Student Leadership at the University of Miami. His first experiences at the University of Miami were on the Miami Beach waterways, rowing with the men’s crew team. After rowing, Johnston pledged the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity where he has maintained the position of Treasurer for the past three semesters.

“Joining my fraternity has been one of the best choices I have made. I was reticent at first, but the opportunities that I have experienced, are unbelievable,” says President Johnston.

However, President Johnston’s passion for Student Government has always been high on his priority list. This was evident by him serving on the SG Executive Board as a freshman, in the position of Chief of Staff. The following year, he was elected Speaker of the Senate where he was in charge of entire legislative branch of SG.

“I challenge all freshman to get involved some way on campus, make the most of college. I always think, I learn just as much out of the classroom as I do in the classroom.”

Vice President Levine was not as active in Student Government in the past, but his leadership roles have been exemplary. Vice President Levine has gathered his experience through his fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha. Levine joined the fraternity as a freshman. Levine also serves as a Supreme Court Justice on the Interfraternity Council Judicial Board.

Treasurer Dar is the youngest of the three executive officers. Treasurer Dar had to renounce her position of Sophomore Senator to be inaugurated last year as Treasurer. Treasurer Dar is active in other organizations like Yellow Rose Society, United Black Students, and the Council of International Student Organizations.

These student leaders have had a successful tenure so far serving the University of Miami students.

Student Government was recently successful in placing two ice machines in each of the residential colleges.

“Well, we live in Florida, and everyone needs ice. The small refrigerators in the dorms do not cut it. Bringing in ice machines will make the residence hall experience just that much better,” says President Johnston.

This summer, Student Government also took on a joint venture with President Donna Shalala and Student Affairs. SG was able to extend the hours of the Wellness Center until midnight.

“I think this project is great. Many students have late classes, or study sessions that keep them away from the gym. Furthermore, this now gives more of an opportunity for everyone to use the facility,” remarks President Johnston.

Student Government was also able to keep the convenient store open 24 hours. Burger King and Jamba Juice will also be extended weekdays until 8:00pm.

Starting in the fall, there will be a food cart in front of the Cox Science Building and a crepe cart in the spring.

“Since Arts and Sciences has the most students, it just makes sense to have a food cart available to them too,” says Johnston.

Student Government was able to work with Student Affairs and Information Technology to place wireless internet in the Hecht Athletic Center. This will be available to all people who use the Athletic Center.

This past year, Ibis Ride, The Shuttle to the Grove, ran on a pilot basis. The shuttle ran every Saturday night, to and from the Grove, between 8:00 pm and 3:30 am. This program will be extended to Friday and Saturday nights, for safe transportation to The Grove.

Student Government was able to work with a new organization, G.L.U.E., Greek Life Uniting Everyone. Student Government successfully petitioned to Dr. Patricia. A. Whitely, Vice President for Student Affairs, for a pilot-revised alcohol policy. Dr. Whitely was very responsive to the concerns, and very willing to work with the Student Government.

“I just want to see more events on campus. Partying is a part of college, however, people have to learn to have fun safely. This revision to the alcohol policy is causing individuals to carefully plan, and confront problems at social events.”

Well, the year has not even started, and this ticket has almost completed their objectives.

President Donna Shalala is definitely a proponent of Student Government. “This year we have a great Student Government, with great Student Leaders,” remarked President Shalala.

If you are interested in Student Government, email sgpresident@miami.edu or call the Student Government Office at 305-284-3082.

WVUM Partnership:
The University of Miami’s WVUM DJs broadcast Parking and Transportation Services ‘hourly Parking Lot Updates to you over the radio airwaves during fall and spring terms. To help ease your morning commute to campus and take the guesswork out of parking, tune into FM 90.5 hourly on the half hour between 8:30 A.M. and 1:30 P.M. on class days to hear our partners at WVUM announce which campus parking lots have available space.

HURRY ‘CANE SHUTTLE SERVICE
Parking and Transportation Services operates the Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle on the Coral Gables campus during the fall and spring semesters. The Shuttle is equipped with state of the art wheelchair accessible buses, is available free of charge to all University students, faculty, and staff, and, over its routes, serves the campus’ major classroom and office buildings, parking lots, and the University Metrorail station.

Approximately 700,000 passengers took advantage of our Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle service between June 2001 and May 2002, an 11% increase over the previous twelve month period. That record high ridership figure emphasizes the convenience, popularity, and acceptance of the Hurry ‘Cane system, and includes a monthly ridership record of almost 110,000 passengers during October 2001.

The Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle facilitates use of the University’s perimeter parking lots, and provides a convenient means of traversing campus without using a personal vehicle. The Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle route system and hours of operation are detailed in our Shuttle route map which is available on board the Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle buses, and at the Parking and Transportation Services offices in the Ponce Garage at 5665 Ponce de Leon Boulevard. Telephone inquiries may be made to the Department at 305-284-3096, option 3, or visit our web site at www.miami.edu/parking/shuttle .

-Shuttle Service to the Shops at Sunset Place-
In its continuing partnership with Student Government, Parking and Transportation Services’ Sunset Shuttle has provided convenient service from the Coral Gables campus to South Miami’s Shops at Sunset Place for approximately 9,000 passengers during the past academic year. This free shuttle service operates Friday and Saturday evenings, during Fall and Spring terms, from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m., and includes a convenient stop at the Publix Supermarket on Monza Avenue near Sunset Place (the Publix stop is serviced until 10:00 p.m. when the store closes).

Originating on campus at Stanford Circle, the Sunset Shuttle makes a stop at the Parking Garage before proceeding on to Publix and Sunset Place stops. The shuttle makes a continuous loop from Stanford Circle, returning every twenty (20) to thirty (30) minutes contingent upon traffic. Resident Students, Commuter Students, Faculty, and Staff are encouraged to take advantage of this fast, convenient service.

-Ibis Ride-
Since its inception in October 2001, approximately 1,700 students have chosen the Ibis Ride as their means of transportation between the Coral Gables campus and the attractions of Coconut Grove. The free Ibis Ride operates Friday and Saturday evenings from 8:00 p.m. until 3:30 a.m. during fall and spring semesters. UM student ID is required.

-Sgt. Sebastian Shuttle-
In the evening, the Sgt. Sebastian Shuttle serves the Coral Gables campus. To accommodate the growing numbers of evening riders, four buses operate from 6:00pm until 10:00pm, with two buses in operation thereafter until midnight.

-Express Shuttle-
Express Shuttle service is provided from the Garage to both Stanford Circle and the Fountain during the busy morning and late afternoon hours. We improved the Express Shuttle service by extending the morning operational hours of both Stanford Circle and Fountain Express buses to 7:00am until 12:00pm, while the evening Express hours are from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

By Mike Johnston
Special to the Hurricane
Many alumni can remember the time the graduated, sitting outside in the scorching summer heat. Commencement always was a beautiful ceremony, however, it was never very personal. Every student would stand with their peers, flip their tassel, and sit down. However, with President Donna Shalala, that has all changed.
“Every student will get their diploma from the President. Each student will be announced and personally acknowledged,” guarantees Vice President for Student Affairs Patricia A. Whitely.
President Shalala believes commencement should be a very personal experience, shared with the student’s family, as well as the community. Since every student has worked so hard to achieve their diploma, they deserve a picture with the president of their university.
This past Spring Commencement was a huge success, highly changed from the years past. This year, President Shalala took one large ceremony, and split it into three smaller, more personal ceremonies. Each ceremony took place under a huge, orange, green, and white tent with air conditioning. Every student was able to bring as many guests as he/she wanted.
Each ceremony has one student speaker, as well as one famous keynote speaker. Every graduating student’s name was announced; they walked up and received their diploma from President Shalala, took a picture with her, then proceeded to sit.
Student Government President Emeritus Jose “Pepi” Diaz was able to recollect his recent graduation. “It was so much better than last year, it will be something that I will remember for the rest of my life. Your college graduation day is surreal, so the personal feeling really helps you recollect the memories thereafter,” remarks Diaz.
In spring, the University of Miami will have a senior convocation. Senior Convocation is something that has never occurred before at the university. It will occur the night before graduation, and there will be one renowned speaker. The senior class shall choose this person, and President Shalala will do her best to get that person to come.
“I think the changes were outstanding, Spring Commencement was well received by the student and their families,” remarked Whitely.
Commencement is the last major stepping stone to any student career. This is a time that should be remembered, and be shared by all family and friends. This is why President Shalala has made it an unforgettable experience.

****Important Parking Facts****

1. A valid University of Miami parking permit must be displayed in each motorized vehicle that is parked on the Coral Gables campus.

2. Perimeter Parking
Perimeter lots (Ponce Garage, Metro North and South, Scodella, Red Road North and South, Liguria, and Brescia) generally have a greater availability of parking spaces. Park in the perimeter lots and ride the convenient Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle to your campus destination.

3. Reserved/Service Spaces
All Reserved and Service spaces are specifically designated with pre-casts (concrete slabs on the ground). Avoid possible citation and tow by not parking in these spaces.

4. Meters
Parking Meters are for Visitors Only! All students, faculty, and employees must purchase a parking permit, and park in designated spaces.

5. Coral Gables Streets
Remember, meters on the following streets are controlled and enforced by the City of Coral Gables (not the University of Miami):
* Stanford Drive
* Dickinson Drive
* San Amaro Drive (aka Hurricane Drive)
* Pavia Street
* Pisano Avenue

6. Details of the University of Miami’s parking regulations are published in the
“Moving Vehicle Parking Code”, a copy of which is given to each person who purchases a University of Miami parking permit. Copies of the Code are also available from the Parking Department, or on line at www.miami.edu/parking/code .

Acquisition of Additional Parking Spaces
Construction in the multi-phase Parking Management Plan began in March 2002. The Plan includes the construction of new surface and garage parking spaces; the re-designation of existing lots; improvements in frequency, hours and service areas to the existing Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle system; additional security; new lighting; and pricing modifications.
Construction of two additional floors atop the existing Ponce Garage will yield a total of 1052 spaces.
Current construction of the Pavia Garage, opposite the Daystar Health Center, will yield 561 spaces, while building the Mahoney/Pearson garage adjacent to the residence hall will yield approximately 636 spaces. The location of these new garages will improve parking on the core of the campus for faculty, staff and students and provide needed parking for visitors to the campus. The two garages will have twenty-four hour security facilities equipped with closed circuit television monitors, information booths, and blue light emergency telephones.
Construction on the new Plumer Lot is scheduled to begin during the Fall 2002semester. To be located on Ponce de Leon Boulevard, this lot I will yield another 78 parking spaces

Discount Parking
Once expansion construction is completed, the entire Ponce Garage will be converted from standard to discount pricing, as will the existing Scodella lot at Brescia Avenue and Red Road. With the conversion of the Ponce Garage and Scodella to discount parking, and the recent completion of the new Red Road North and South and Liguria discount lots, along with the existing Metro North and South discount lots there will be nearly 1800 discounted spaces on the Coral Gables campus. This is a major increase over the previous 200 discounted spaces.
The Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle makes convenient stops in or near all the discount parking lots. For instance, the Metro South lot is located next to the University Metrorail Station which is served by the Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle, as is the Metro North lot. Within five minutes, you can be transported to the Stanford Circle stop and the adjacent School of Business, Merrick Building, and Whitten University Center. For those who purchase the Discount parking permit, the discount lots coupled with the Hurry ‘Cane Shuttle add up to a very economical alternative among the available parking options.
EASY Permit
In order to facilitate the distribution of parking permits, UM Parking & Transportation Services offers a permit pre-payment program to students via the on-line EASY system. Students are strongly encouraged to apply for their UM Commuter or Resident Student parking permit via the on-line EASY system. Please visit the web site at: www.miami.edu/easy
This program offers students the opportunity to select and pre-pay the appropriate parking permit prior to arriving on campus, and will reduce wait time upon arriving on campus to pick up your permit at Registration Arena, August 22-27, or at Parking & Transportation Services in the Ponce Garage. Parking permits are not mailed.
Day-Pass Machine
For your convenience day-pass machines are located in both the Ponce Garage and the Pavia Garage. These machines are:
* Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
* Constantly monitored by a security camera
* Programmed to dispense 1 to 5 day passes (in 24 hour elapsed time periods)
* Passes valid in all Sun, Palm, Ibis, and Seashell Lots
* Equipped for cash purchases only
* Posted with detailed operating instructions

Visited the Richter Lately?

Moving into its later stages of development, the Richter Renovation Project has already completed several new areas now available to the public.

The first phase of the Richter’s $16 million face-lift included the construction of the Dauer Clock tower, which provided a new main interior stairwell for the library (to replace the older and more slender stairway).

Phase one also introduced a new, larger, staff elevator that would now reach the third floor (as opposed to the preceding elevator that could only access the second floor and mezzanine.)

While these recent additions to the library have modernized its former historic appearance, most students, especially during finals, were not impressed.

Student Patrick Dupree noted, “I have a watch on my wrist – there’s no need for a large clock to tell me what time it is.”

However, while the student body has endured much frustration, the Dauer Clock Tower, like much of the Richter’s refurbishing, once completed, will soon offer several benefits to everyone.

The Dauer Clock Tower, for example, widened the library’s existing stairway, as well as expanded energy efficiency while reducing energy costs through its new glass facade.

The new Richter Library has also made several accommodations for the physically impaired. Among these are a wheelchair ramp and easy-access electronic doors at the library’s entrance.

Coral Gables building codes did not require accommodations for the physically impaired. Now that these renovations are taking place, however, these problems plan to be solved.

The new Richter Library has also built several new study rooms for students to gather and work on group projects and sessions. This aspect of the renovation has already achieved popularity among the student body, considering that all of the rooms are almost always checked out.

“The study rooms let me plug in my laptop to the wall so my group and I can research and discuss all at the same time,” says Student Stephanie Halpin.

Also, with the lack of well-lit and quiet places around campus, these study rooms offer a quiet and non-interrupted environment for the easily distracted student.

Furthermore, The Richter Library, originally built in the 1960s, was never designed to accommodate its growing quantity of books and student body.

Library employee, Fiona Kelleghan said, “The renovated library will offer more seating areas for students, and more study areas, as well. The temporary walls will be removed and the current periodicals section will be much larger and more accessible.”

This means more space.

Believe it or not, the claustrophobic feel of the existing library will soon be over. Maintenance and construction is currently being done on the Air-Conditioning units as well as the electrical wiring, making it necessary for temporary walls to be put in place.

In addition to new furniture, the Richter Library also promises to expand its services.

“One thing that we’re all very excited about,” says Fiona Kelleghan, “is that we’re hiring new reference librarians which means more help for students on a one on one basis. Also, the Cuban heritage collection, when it’s open, will offer a greater variety and wealth of materials on Cuba and the Caribbean than any other library anywhere. That should be a huge benefit to students and departments ranging from international studies to foreign literature to Communication.”

Construction is scheduled to be completed by early 2003.

Norman C. Parsons Jr., director of the 120,000 square-foot Wellness Center at the University of Miami, remembers when the only campus recreation and fitness facilities consisted of a teeny, tiny building not even twice the size of his current office.

“You have to paint a picture of UM back then; there was hardly even a tree on campus,” Parsons, 58, recalls. “It was just a big dust bowl.”

That was 30 years ago. Today the $14 million center serves the UM community with three floors of courts, pools, equipment, multipurpose rooms and a variety of services.

“It has far exceeded our expectations, not only for working out. We wanted the facility to be a hub for students and faculty to interact without shirts and ties on,” Parsons said.

A graduate of West Virginia University, where he received both his bachelor and master’s degrees in Physical Education and Recreation, Parsons came to UM after spending two years in the army in Alaska and then working at University of Michigan.

“You can imagine my relief when I saw a job opening in Miami,” Parsons said. “I snatched it right up and trekked down south with my wife and baby in tow.”

Besides the weather, another thing that attracted him to UM was the amount of room for growth in the department. He also liked the fact that the department was a division of Student Affairs, a detail he says is important for student’s needs to be heard and granted.

At the time, the entire department consisted of six staff members, compared to 22 professionals today, with one office in the University Center where the Bank of America ATM is now found.

Parsons credits the persistent efforts of students for the present facilities on campus. In the spring of 1992, students voted to asses themselves an $85 fee to go towards building a fitness facility as their contribution to future Hurricanes.

Dealing with and helping the students, Parson said, is the main reason he enjoys his job.

“I love people. The chance to interact with individuals and know that I am contributing to their better quality and longevity of life is a pretty good feeling,” Parsons said.

One way he gets directly involved is through the Hey Norm! campaign that was implemented last year. The campaign consists of posters placed around the center with Parson’s picture and suggestion cards, which he reads personally.

“The campaign started as a marketing tool to solicit input from the center patrons about the facilities and services. People like to have an outlet to voice their opinions and we like to hear from them,” Parsons said. “It has actually been really well-received and I think we will continue to use it in the future.”

This September will mark Parson’s 30th anniversary at UM and although his job title has basically stayed the same, he says he has seen tremendous changes all around him.

“If I could offer one piece of advice to students, especially incoming freshman, it would be to take advantage of the facilities offered to you. Definitely enjoy your college time, but be aware of your health as well,” Parsons said. “Watch your alcohol consumption and don’t stuff your face with bacon double cheeseburgers.”

The story behind Otto G. Richter’s association with the University of Miami reads like a dramatic novel.

Richter, who had retired to Miami for health reasons in his early 40’s, wrote a new will on the back of his medical chart while on his deathbed. This will, witnessed by Richter’s nurse, left the University of Miami all the money that was originally to be shared with Carnegie Institute of Technology, Richter’s alma mater.

A loyal fraternity man who was a member of Theta Xi at Carnegie, Richter was angered when the Institute decided to move the Theta Xi fraternity house off the main campus. UM gained $2.5 million.

Over the years, UM had acquired some 600,000 volumes but had no central library. The University collection was scattered about the campus and volumes were housed in various buildings, causing much difficulty for students, faculty and staff.

The Richter Library soon would change that.

Construction began with a three-story building. By April 1961, six floors were added to the original building and a separate building was built that included a lobby and service floors.

A splendid network of Research Facilities

Today, the University Library is a major research facility for the Southeastern United States and Caribbean regions. It is one of the largest libraries in the region, housing approximately 2.6 million volumes.

UM also belongs to the 120-member Association of Research Libraries, the Center for Research Libraries and is a founding member of SEFLIN (Southeast Florida Library Information Network).

Richter Library is also designated for the Government Publications of the federal government. University Libraries was established as a U.S. depository in 1939. In 1993 it was named after longtime South Florida Congressman Dante Fascell. The department selects roughly 80 percent of the materials available from the U.S. Government Printing Office. More than 20,000 items are received, processed and housed each year, with total holdings numbering in the millions, according to library faculty.

In addition to U.S documents, the department also collects materials from various international bodies, such as the United Nations, UNESCO, the World Bank and the Organizations for Economic Cooperation and Development.

On the whole, government documents include paper pamphlets as well as substantial monographs and periodicals. Depositories receive increasing numbers of documents on microfiche, CD-ROM and Internet/online sources.

Once a scattered collection of books, the University library system now includes the Richter Library, the Music Library, the Architecture Library and the Math Library. The School of Law Library, The Marine Science Library, and the Calder Memorial Library at the School of Medicine are separate research entities.

Collections

Although the University library system did not have a permanent home until the 1960s, it had been actively collecting books during the 10-year period prior to the completion of the Richter Library.

The Floridian and Americana Collection, with particular emphasis on Florida and the Southern states, provides the University with one of the most distinguished libraries in Florida history in the state. The library of Sir Noel Livingston was acquired in 1954. It consists of materials on Jamaica, its history and government, including votes of the Assembly from 1786.

A year later, the Western Society of Engineers Library was purchased through the assistance of the John Crerar Library. It contains approximately 20,000 volumes of various fields of engineering.

Two thousand volumes, including first editions of all Longfellow works and the 136 different editions of Evangelina, were purchased from Thomas Devalcourt, curator of Longfellow House, in 1952.

Devalcourt assembled the Lerner Collection, composed of 5,000 volumes, including first and other editions of major and minor figures in mid-nineteenth century American literature for the University Library. It was purchased through the generosity of Mr. Michael Lerner.

The library also holds many rare books and manuscripts valued at more than $20,000. Six Thomas Jefferson letters are included among them.

Special Collections

The Archives and Special Collections Division maintains approximately 50,000 rare books and publications, 500 manuscripts, 100,000 photographs, 5,000 maps, 2,000 architectural drawings and 2,500 linear feet of University Archives to support the teaching and research interests of faculty and students. The library contains a number of impressive collections.

Since its creation, the University of Miami has prided itself on being a Pan American University. In fact, that was one of the goals of the founding University trustees, to build a bridge, a link to Latin America. Keeping in that tradition, in 1930, the library materials on Latin America and the Caribbean grew to provide support for the numerous courses taught at the University’s Pan-American Institute.

During the 1960’s, the Cuban Heritage Collection saw considerable growth after several exiled Cubans were added to the library staff.

The Richter Library’s Cuban Heritage Collection now includes approximately 45,000 volumes of both rare and contemporary books. Cuban periodicals include newspapers, magazines and newsletters.

The Cuban Archives – now the Cuban Heritage Collection – include material produced in Cuba, by Cuban exiles and by Cuban-Americans since 1959.

A collection of Cuban historical and literary manuscripts from the 17th to 20th century containing important material dated May 12, 1895, and signed by Jose Marti, father of Cuban independence, and General Maximo Gomez, commander in chief of the army during the War for Independence (1895-1898). There are also collections of personal corporate papers from distinguished Cubans as well as general materials on Cuba.

Other notable collections include the “Calvin Shedd Papers: The Civil War in Florida,” a series of remarkable letters written by Calvin Shedd, a Union soldier during the Civil War from 1862 to 1863; the Florida Postcard Collection, which contains about 5,000 postcards of Florida buildings, landmarks, cities, and towns, tourist attractions and other views; Robinson Crusoe, printed in London by William Taylor in 1719; and a “Tour of the Early Years, 1916-1957: In Honor of the University of Miami’s birthday, 1926-1996,” a collection of rare photos of the University campus during its early years.

After back-to-back lectures, or during long stretches between classes, students who live in the University of Miami dormitories can go to their rooms to seek sanctuary from the daily stresses of student life. Students who live off-campus go to the office of the Association of Commuter Students.

The word “office” hardly sounds like a sanctuary, but it is actually similar to a lounge.

The ACS office is located in the Whitten University Center in Room 236. It’s decorated with pictures of past ACS events. There are several couches, a TV/VCR, a video-library and several trophies for commuter students’ achievements in community service and intramural sports. A refrigerator is stocked with goodies for all ACS members.

“It’s like our home, some people even sleep here,” says audio-engineering student Miriam Cortez, who joined ACS last year as a freshman.

The Department of Commuter Students Affairs provides a variety of services and programs through ACS intended for to help students who live off campus become involved with university activities and make campus life more enjoyable and convenient.

In July, ACS sponsors Great Start, a pre-orientation program for incoming commuter freshman to help them get the feel of the campus during the calm of the summer sessions.

Once fall semester begins, ACS hold pizza sales and car washes to raise money for tail-gating parties during the Miami Hurricanes football season.

“It’s a great organization to get involved with and any student will have fun,” says Webb Morgan, Assistant Director of Orientation and Commuter Student Affairs since last June. “It provides a network for commuters to meet people.”

Throughout the year, ACS helps causes off-campus. Last year, for example through Hurricanes Help the Hometown, students cleaned-up, painted and restored Homestead playgrounds.

Hawaiian Hurricane Hookup, another ACS sponsored service, raised $800 for the American Diabetes Association by sponsoring a Hurricane singles auction. The auction allowed students to bid on 20 bachelors and bachelorettes from the football and cheerleading teams and a free dinner at the Ratskeller.

ACS enters a float in the Hurricane Homecoming parade and also participates in Organize Cheer, a competition among campus organization of who has the most spirited dance and cheer-song with a chosen them. Last year the theme was Out of the ’80s.

ACS is infamous for their “Brown-Floater,” which competes in the annual UM Cardboard Boat Race held at Lake Osceola against architecture and engineering students in the spring.

It is never too late get involved, log onto www.miami.edu/studorgs/acs .

New members of the campus community will observe many traditions, events, and occasions throughout their first semester at the University of Miami, and along with these observances may come many questions. A few such questions are sure to be: What are those funny looking jackets? Why are these people still beating that drum? Why does our campus smell like a campfire?

The answers lie in the spirit of Iron Arrow and the Seminole tradition upon which Iron Arrow is based. A tradition begun just one month after the University of Miami opened 75 years ago, Iron Arrow endures today as the highest honor attainable at the University. The right to wear the vivid handcrafted jackets carries with it the highest standards of leadership, character, scholarship, service, and above all, love of alma mater. Members of this honor’s society are leaders of the University of Miami as well as the local and global communities. Iron Arrow was created by members of the first freshmen class, along with Bowman Foster Ashe, the University’s first President. Last year was not only the 75th Anniversary for the University but also for Iron Arrow. Iron Arrow has survived the trials and tribulations of the University and the nation alike, including such turbulent times as World War II, the fiery protests of the Vietnam War and Hurricane Andrew along with controversial issues such as race and gender discrimination. Iron Arrow and its members have worked diligently to ensure that the University has maintained the progressive pace of our society.

The members of Iron Arrow are selected from students, faculty, staff, administration, and alumni of the University of Miami who have contributed significantly to the betterment of the University and the promotion of its goals and ideals. What may seem like routine day-to-day functions of the University to the everyday student are actually often tests of dedication and loyalty to the University performed by various members of Iron Arrow. Whether helping to coordinate freshman orientation, scheduling events for International Week, or managing departmental budgets, members of Iron Arrow play an integral part in these activities, making certain that the University runs efficiently.

Iron Arrow strives to promote the characteristics of humility, character, leadership, scholarship and love of alma mater that the University was founded upon. As the oldest honor society on campus, Iron Arrow is charged with maintaining the traditions of old, while also working to ensure that the new are equally recognized. Like a ribbon work for awareness, the bi-annual beating of the drum during new-member tappings remembers the University’s past while also welcoming the future contributors to the University’s community.

Right about now, you must be very excited about starting your first successful year at UM! Anticipation builds as the first day of classes rapidly approaches. When you begin, you will be taking a significant step toward the “future” everyone has always spoken about. The University of Miami will provide you with an education that prepares you to pursue and accomplish each of your long-term goals.

Here at the University of Miami, and Honor Code exists to ensure the academic integrity of your undergraduate degree. It establishes the standard of achievement for every academic endeavor during your undergraduate career. Simply stated, the University of Miami does not tolerate any type of academic dishonesty. Any individual caught cheating at the University of Miami can face a variety of sanctions including expulsion. Admission to the University of Miami comes as a result of hard work, self-discipline, and personal integrity. While you study at this institution, the University of Miami Honor Code allows for personal growth and honest accomplishment.

Each student agrees to abide by the Honor Code on the initial application to the University of Miami. The Code can be found on page 69 of the Student Rights & Responsibilities manual, which you will receive during Orientation. Tests and papers throughout your academic stay will require you to sign the “Honor Statement.” The University of Miami Honor Council, consisting of 22 undergraduate students, is charged with enforcing the Honor Code. When not adjudicating cases, the Honor Council remains busy by educating students, faculty, and staff on the latest issues surrounding Academic Integrity. If you have a question about the Honor Code, you will be able to meet Honor Council members during Orientation.

Currently, the Honor Council is also searching for a few good undergraduate men and women to fill vacancies left by graduating seniors. Selection to serve on the Honor Council is highly competitive and consists of several stages. If you have any questions about the Honor Code or think you might be interested in serving on the 2002-2003 Honor Council, please stop by the Dean of Students’ Office at Building 21-H for more information. Each of us on the Council is honored that you chose the University of Miami!

Sincerely,
Becky Quarles, President
University of Miami Honor Council