Swing dancing is more than just about dance. It has the powerful ability to bring together people of all ages, appearances, beliefs, and backgrounds into harmony and communication. Living in a time where discord is the status quo, we need swing dancing like never before. This is not a need that is limited to the campus community. Furthermore, student organizations offer a unique framework for students to network and collaborate with local communities and small businesses, adding value to the students, the community, and the university’s reputation. In 8 years of swing dancing, my friends and I have made close friends, met spouses, found healing from addictions and struggles from mental health, and found jobs via the broader swing dancing community. In each of our cases, this would not have been possible had our college discouraged us from involving non-students in our club activities. Non-student members often provide critical financial support and mentorship for student organizations, often giving back to clubs more than they take. There is no financial sensibility in a blanket policy that excludes all non-students from UConn-affiliated student organization activities. I encourage university personnel to reverse their recent policy change and say yes to opportunities for fostering meaningful relationships between students and the broader community. Both the students and tax-paying citizens of Connecticut deserve better from their public land grant institution. Sincerely, Emily Reeves Treasurer, The SwingCats at Montana State University
~ Emily Reeves, Outside Community Member
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