University of Virginia Library

Transitional
Crisis

Crisis is one of those words which have
lost their meaning through repeated use. But
its application to the present state of transitional
fund — formally known as the Summer
Work-Study Preparatory Program — is hard to
denigrate. The University this week is facing a
crisis of commitment. It has the opportunity
to initiate a program that almost anyone
would agree is perhaps the most constructive
idea broached thus far in the fight against
institutional racism.

For those who place the academic standards
of the University in a position of highest
priority, this is an opportunity to uphold
those standards. The Summer Preparatory
Program is designed to help alleviate the
educational deficiencies that seem to go along
with a disadvantaged cultural background. It
does not provide a free ride to a cheap degree,
rather it seeks to raise these disadvantaged
students to a competitive level.

For those whose interest lies in leading the
University towards meaningful integration,
this is an opportunity to do more than
demonstrate. The abysmal primary and secondary
educational opportunities which Virginia
has long afforded its al poor and racial
minorities ironically insure that these groups
will be the primary recipients of transitional
help.

Mr. Shannon and other leaders of the
community have indicated their support for
the program, but it is still some $13,000
short of fruition. The results of this week's
fund drive will determine its fate. We feel that
this is a cause that cannot be ignored.
Contributions can be given to canvassers or
sent to the Summer Preparatory Program, in
care of the Bursar's Office in Garret Hall.