Faculty and staff advisers play an extremely important role in supporting Cornell's student organizations. It is a natural point of contact in which students can interact with and learn from faculty and staff around shared interests outside the classroom.

I have often felt that their influence is inversely proportional to the number of times they insert themselves into the affairs of those they advise. It is certainly the case for me in advising the Student Assembly. Indeed, I often must resist the impulse to dive in when the political fracas becomes heated and the fur starts to fly. In such cases, I must remind myself that the best path is to be quiet, yet available for consultation and advice when it's needed.

Yet, the role of adviser should neither be passive, nor one played in name only. And when a student publication -- the Cornell American (September 2005 issue) -- publishes an inflammatory article that many on campus see as promoting race hatred-- then advisers should engage actively with the organizations that they advise and help them get back on the right path toward their own stated goals. Students, too, should be more aware that advisers are an important part of the process of decision-making.

I believe the time has come to request the stronger identification of those who advise and mentor all student organizations.

Those who advise student publications should have their affiliation indicated on the masthead of the publication. Recognition for advisers to other types of organizations would vary depending upon the activity. Such recognition would underscore the role and responsibilities associated with advising student organizations.

My reluctance to insinuate myself in contentious moments must yield to events, such as the Cornell American article, that may potentially damage the institution of student government or Cornell at large. In such instances I have little choice but to wade in and make my opinions known.

-- Kent L. Hubbell, the Robert W. and Elizabeth C. Staley Dean of Students