Tarryn Lael Simmons

Is it just me or does this campus seem to be buzzing louder than ever with people protesting, preaching and projecting about their views and beliefs? I am proud and inspired by the wave of passion and activism I have seen exhibited by my fellow Eagles in the past weeks.

Who can call us complacent now?

However, I think that there is some other mendacious activity that I must bring to light.

Here at NCCU everyone has someone who has their best interest at heart — Athletic Departments, Greek letter organizations, The Sound Machine, The Student Government Association.

All these wonderful facets of college life have substantial administrative support.

But considering that NCCU is supposed to be an institution of academic advancement, shouldn’t one of the most highly esteemed departments be that of the University Honors Program — a division of our great university that is supposed to harbor, nurture and galvanize the best and brightest at NCCU?

The UHP has allowed me to go to a number of cultural events, receive graduate school preparation and provided me with information on how to maximize and utilize my potential.

But I must bring up the fact that behind every great program are great people.

The director of the UHP, Leon Hardy, was one of the first administrators on this campus that really tried to get to know me and aid in my quest of higher learning. He always has the honor students best interest at heart.

I know that he goes past the call of duty to provide honor students with academic, leadership and cultural experiences — even aiding in search for financial support for these endeavors.

According to Janice Harper, assistant vice chancellor for University Programs, this great person behind this great program is being replaced.

On Wednesday, April 5th, Harper spoke to my honors seminar class (composed of 37 University Honors Students) to discuss his dismissal – in a very ambiguous way.

The decision to replace Hardy was made hastily and evadingly. No one even bothered to ask any honors students if we were pleased with the quality of service we were receiving under Hardy’s direction or inform us of why he was being removed.

But I’m sorry; I forgot that at NCCU decisions are too often made irregardless of what is in the best interest of the students.

On behalf of the University Honors Students I would like to let Chancellor James H. Ammons, Provost Beverly Jones, and Vice Chancellor Janice Harper (the individuals ultimately responsible for our director’s termination) know that Hardy is dedicated the foundations of this University — Truth and Service.

Why try to fix something that is not broken?