Students ✦ Faculty
The dynamic between students and faculty across the country during the 60s and 70s was complex as students fought for change both outside and inside the classroom. While many professors clashed with students, others listened and aided in the change. At HWS students and faculty worked together to find solutions for students complaints. A Hobart Herald, piece published on January 10th, 1969 reported on student/faculty collaboration, highlighting curriculum efforts: “Meaningful Student-Faculty Interaction, Interdisciplinary Course Reform Proposed”. Course reform was a large source of frustration for students, the traditional courses and lack of widespread new knowledge being introduced. HWS faculty worked with students to better their experience at HWS and further their learning.
There was evidence of students wanting to take charge of their own education in articles of The Herald. In 1970 writers for The Herald implored students to take part in a Curriculum Reform Committee survey designed to get student feedback on the new curriculum. The students hoped to relay survey results directly to faculty and staff. Students were showing an avid interest in participating in this curriculum reform and creating tangible change for themselves. Student involvement on this committee was an example of the student body standing up to faculty and administration and attempting to work together in order to bring about a positive change to campus. Prior to the late 60s, students had not played an active role in their own education. Students’ call for a curriculum reform and their active involvement on the committee gave them a platform to make actual, positive change alongside faculty members and replace the old curriculum. In response, the administration created the committee to enact change and allowed students to take more than just a symbolic role.