Renn Fayre Reed union

On January 30 around 225 students gathered with faculty and staff members, as well as several alumni, to discuss their reactions to last year's Renn Fayre and express concerns about the future of this Reed tradition. Although tensions had been high after last year's report of more than $15,000 damage, the atmosphere was overwhelmingly positive. Speakers focused less on laying blame and more on constructive suggestions for improvement.

Student opinions varied widely, ranging from safety concerns and worry over "a bad vibe" to definite hope for the future and expressions of responsibility. "Where is all the anger coming from?" asked one student, voicing an underlying question of the evening. Already, however, students expect a change. Many think last year marked a low point and that an attitude of increased responsibility will grow now that students have recognized the problem.

The faculty members hoped to see less dangerous levels of excess. They expressed unease at seeing students under various influences and wondered whether there was a place for them at Renn Fayre. Staff members wanted to help students with sensible planning, and community safety reaffirmed their commitment to protect, not persecute, students.

The alumni offered suggestions of fun and safe events and were willing to work with current students to recapture the friendly spirit of their own Renn Fayres.

Suggestions included more restrictive passes, fewer guests, fostering a tranquil night atmosphere, moving events to decrease damage, drug and alcohol education from students to students, increased volunteering for karma patrol, creating more activities for faculty and staff members, and heightened student responsibility for fellow students.