SHOULD THE NEW GRADUATION TRADITION OF SMASHING CLAY MUGS BE DROPPED? IF SO, WHAT SHOULD REPLACE IT?

LAST SPRING, THE SENIOR class chose to drop the old clay pipes ceremony—considered demeaning to Native Americans—and inaugurate a toast with clay mugs. The students then smashed the mugs, clay-pipe-style. The ceremony spared fellow seniors' feelings but caused some physical harm: six students were sent to the hospital after being cut with flying mug shards.

Students' reaction to our question about dropping the new tradition ranged from complete indifference to bitter resentment. More than half of the '95s on campus for their sophomore summer were unaware that injuries had resulted from last spring's ceremony. Of the 30 students queried, 14 said they would like to see a return to clay pipes. They composed the largest group. "Bring back the old tradition," said Brian White '95. "Isn't part of the alma mater "lest the old traditions fail'?" Several students said they understood the offensive nature of the clay pipe ritual but wanted its return simply because of its age-old tradition. Another solution offered by some: make participation in the ceremony an individual choice.

Of those who favored keeping the clay mugs, some suggested that they be used in a safer manner, with caution taken to smash them properly. "Chuck them against the wall and stand really far away," offered Shara Frase '95. Students were hesitant to come up with any original ideas for substitute traditions. One creative student was an exception: "We should all just drink out of one giant clay mug instead," he suggested. Never mind those health risks; smashing this mug would be almost irresistible.