The Task Force on Military Engagement has just released its executive summary of its findings to the members of the USenate. Of the 2,252 students who replied to the Task Force's survey on ROTC in February, 60 percent indicated approval of "a return of ROTC to Columbia's campuses" and 79 percent approved of “Columbia allowing the participation of Columbia students in ROTC, whether on- or off-campus.”
From the Task Force's executive summary:
The Task Force unanimously formulated findings and recommendations for the University Senate:
- Our current relationships with the military enrich the Columbia community.
- Columbia’s relationship with ROTC is an issue of concern and the matter should be addressed formally by the University Senate at present.
- Columbia should actively support the endeavors of individual students to participate in ROTC programs, whether on- or off-campus.
- If ROTC is to return to Columbia, the faculty and Deans must retain full jurisdiction over questions of academic credit, appointments, and governance.
- The Task Force believes that Columbia’s non-discrimination policy is important and encourages a tolerant and open community.
Update: CNN reports that Harvard has just approved ROTC to return to campus. Harvard President Drew Faust is expected to sign an agreement with Navy Secretary Ray Mabus tomorrow.
Check Spec tomorrow for the full story and for coverage of tomorrow's USenate meeting. Read the full ROTC summary here or check after the jump for the full executive summary.
