The University claims that, "UConn fosters a diverse and vibrant culture that meets the needs and seizes the opportunities of a dynamic global society." However, it decides to deny the undergraduate population the opportunity to join the global, diverse, vibrant community of dancers at events which it supports. In deciding to exclude the the experience, camaraderie, and inspiration of the wider dance community, the University chooses insularity, denies the opportunity for undergrads to engage in a global, vibrant community, and generally impoverishes itself. It chooses to parochial. I am a dancer from Seattle, WA, and as a temporary gratis appointment in the Mathematics department, I have found friends and community in the UConn Swing and Blues Club. It has been the highlight of my stay here in Storrs to dance with the Club. I have even been privileged to teach the Blues lesson at the weekly dances. The friends that I have made dancing will long outlast the tenuous acquaintances I've made professionally. To be excluded from this community's events--this community which is now my community, too,-- is most unwelcoming.
~ Sean McCurdy, Non-UConn Collegiate Dancer
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