New column and website provide forum for debate

Over the past several weeks, the editors of OnCampus (myself and Colleen Turner, Director of Communications) have been part of a discussion with Dr. David Pattison, Dr. Gerald Osborn and others regarding the publication of letters to the editor in this newspaper.

Dr. Pattison’s comments (published below) I think fairly reflect the tone and tenor of the conversation. From our perspective, there are three issues. The first relates to the mandate of OnCampus as a vehicle created primarily to highlight the achievements of faculty and staff. That is, and will continue to be, our focus.

The second relates to limits on space and the reluctance of some authors to summarize their thoughts. The third, and most difficult, relates to the challenge, as editors, of determining (and ultimately arbitrating) what is fair comment and important information.
 
Other newspapers can (and do) edit for both length and content. That is not a role we think is appropriate for the editors of OnCampus.
 
That said, we agree with Drs. Pattison and Osborn that as part of a university community, it is important for OnCampus to foster and support comment and discussion on a wide range of issues. This is fundamental to the values of a university, and to the values of External Relations. We like a good debate.

With today’s issue of OnCampus, we have created a regular feature called Forum, an opportunity for members of the university community to comment on issues related to the U of C. This column will be used to summarize letters that have been posted on a dedicated website, www.ucalgary.ca/news/forum, open to students, faculty and staff.

 Submissions may be sent to forum@ucalgary.ca for posting.

Full submissions will be posted online, and OnCampus (the print version) will publish highlights of recent postings in order to facilitate discussion and point readers to postings that may interest them.

We will not edit for content or length except in exceptional circumstances. Authors accept responsibility for their commentary. However, we reserve the right not to publish personal attacks or letters that do not meet a reasonable standard of collegial discourse.

It seems appropriate that we begin with the letter summarizing the discussion, and take this opportunity to thank Drs. Pattison and Osborn for taking the time to raise this issue. Your points are well taken.

Roman Cooney,
Vice-President, External Relations