For Humanity, For our Community

Pro-Humanitate- latin; For Humanity

Filled with the hustle and bustle of extracurriculars, classes, and social events, our university campus can be described in one word: busy. We utilize our time management skills to make the deadline for an editorial, squeeze a meeting for an organization, all the while balancing the long-hours preparing for the rigors of academics. Amidst the frenzied schedule of both university students and faculty, the time for community service and civic engagement can be lost in the shuffle. Indeed, volunteer service and community outreach are thriving at Wake Forest via programs through the Volunteer Service Corps. and various organizations, but is that enough? In troubling times, as our current economy, we may remain complacent in the community work done thus far. “Every little bit helps, right?” Agreeably, the communities served internationally and domestically prove the global scope of Wake Forest’s helping hand. However, we must continue to look deeper into the Winston-Salem community that welcomes Wake Forest’s citizens, for ways to help the humbled host. Through continuous efforts from the Wake Forest community, via service-learning programs or organizational partnerships, we can develop and sustain the help that is most needed in our community.

A History of Tradition

As of late, we have had a tradition of prominent speakers, such as Indra Nooyi and David Gergen, give their insights on world issues and current events, no tradition remains ingrained within the Wake Forest community as Convocation. Founders' Day Convocation is a noteworthy occasion that commemorates the challenges and triumphs that have shaped this institution, and brings our community together. On February 26, 2009 (4pm), Professor of History Anthony Parent will speak on the struggles and successes of diversity on Wake’s campus. While many traditions have faded over time, Convocation withstands the test of time and allows us as the Wake Forest community to share ideas, learn a new perspective, and most importantly, connect with our Wake Forest. Join us in celebrating your successes as the Wake Forest community.

**At the conclusion of Convocation, all are invited to attend a reception in Scales Lobby.**

"Wont' you take me to...downtown?"

With an increasing number of venues in the downtown of Winston-Salem and a heightened interest by the campus community…how do we connect the two? Fear not, Wake Forest has implemented a new shuttle service that takes students downtown Thursdays, Friday, and Saturdays (8pm-3am) to all the popular scenes such as Foothills Brewery, 4th Street Filling Station, and Finnigan’s Wake. At a time when Winston-Salem Arts Council’s main objective is revitalizing the downtown area to appeal to young professionals and students, the Wake Forest shuttle system is truly a blessing. Indeed, groups such as Student Union, Student Government, Residence Life & Housing, and countless others have worked diligently in providing quality social programming and space for the Wake Forest community. However, with new business springing up downtown and more social venues opening, it comes as no surprise that Wake students would like to leave the wrought-iron gates of the university and find other outlets to enjoy and mingle. More importantly, the bus will hopefully curb the amount of drunk-driving incidents. Though in its trial phase, I believe the downtown shuttle will continue on, illustrating that when students speak out, the university administration listens.