Feb. 7, 1998<p>
CONTACT: Enrique Corredera<br>

RAMALEY ISSUES STATEMENT<br>
REGARDING ACACIA DECISION<hr size=5>

        University of Vermont President Judith Ramaley issued the
following statement regarding Acacia's sanction:<p>
        &#34;The sanction imposed on Acacia came as the result of a fair and
thorough, although admittedly lengthy, internal judicial process. I have
full confidence in this process, and I am satisfied with the final
outcome.<p>
        &#34;As an educational institution, we intend to continue finding ways
to turn unfortunate situations such as these into clear learning
opportunities for all members of our community. I am pleased to see that a
constructive educational component was incorporated into the conditions
for any reinstatement of Acacia&#180;s recognition.<p>
        &#34;This incident has had a profound impact not only on the student
who was targeted based on his appearance, but on our entire campus
community. We are working hard to create a truly inclusive and respectful
community in which all people feel both safe and welcomed. It is our
responsibility to confront acts of discrimination and racism, whether
intentional or unintentional, and to collectively challenge any form of
injustice toward members of our community.<p>
        &#34;I want to reiterate my strong belief that misguided actions by a
small group of students should not be used to condemn the entire Greek
system. We need to recognize their many positive contributions in the
community.&#34;<p>
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