University of Virginia Library

Shannon's Statement
Draws Political Fire

News Analysis

By Gordon Peerman
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer

The reaction sweeping across the state
to the strike at the University has now
focused on President Shannon.
Condemned for "his strange response to
the clearly illegal behavior of the anti-war
demonstrators," Mr. Shannon has become
the target for reactionary flak fired by
the conservative bastion stationed in
Richmond.

In an editorial yesterday, the
Richmond News Leader stated, "In siding
with a strident minority of students, Mr.
Shannon has vacated his position of
leadership, and opened his campus to riot and
anarchy." Such is the nature of the
irresponsible and assumptive flowing
from the state capitol.

Clamoring for Mr. Shannon's head, the
forces of reaction are threatening to cut off
funds to get Virginia students "back to the
books - back to classes," in the words of
Governor Holton Mr. Shannon's actions
seen not as agonizing personal decisions, but
merely as a sell-out to the at the
University.

In the event that Mr. Shannon's head should
fall, what then would be the future of the
University? The enlightened and progressive
leadership the University has seen over the past
few years would be replaced by an
administration with the status quo as its
philosophy and guiding light.

Let there be no doubt that in such a
situation, it would be almost impossible to
retain a faculty whose distinguishing character
is academic excellence. Likewise, the University
would be unable to attract the high quality
student; the student body would soon become
a den of mediocrity, faintly reminiscent of
those who now criticize Mr. Shannon.

In keeping the University open, President
Shannon has demonstrated patience to the
utmost, far-reaching insight as an administrator,
and profound courage as a man. It would be a
tragedy indeed if the University should lose the
services of this man, a man who has placed his
head on the block for the sake of the students
and for the ideals for which this University
stands.