The Paw Print Student Newspaper is a student-run newspaper that exists to enlighten, challenge and recognize members of the University of Saint Francis community through a creative and professional periodical.

A Response to our Readers:

It has come to the attention of the Paw Print organization that the University of Saint Francis community is collectively troubled by the advertisement on page 3 of the May 2013 edition. The following is an attempt to alleviate some of the concerns expressed while clarifying the rationale behind the decisions of the editorial staff.

First and foremost, it should be stated that the ad in question was printed as a resource for students who wish to further their educational ambitions through an experience based opportunity. This is not to say that the Paw Print or any of its representatives believe the program presented is superior to the education provided in USF programs. The Paw Print and its representatives are confident that the programs on campus are each exemplary. As a result, we did not look at this ad as representing a competitor. We felt it presented a unique opportunity which may benefit USF students and felt denying our students the information would be a disservice to our readers.

In response to the concerns that printing such an ad would encourage students to leave the University of Saint Francis based on exposure to another program, we sincerely hope this is not the case. With that being said, we wish all students at all universities success in all endeavors. While we hope that current and future Cougars choose to complete their degrees in our exceptional programs, we also understand that our students might benefit from great opportunities offered beyond our campus. We feel that printing the advertisement was appropriate if the opportunity could enhance the academic endeavors of one (or more) of our peers.

As to the concerns that a “competitor’s” ad implied a lack of student pride or integrity, we fervently apologize for this misunderstanding. The representatives of the Paw Print are hardworking individuals who contribute based on a passion for writing and being a part of the USF campus community. If we had been aware that printing this ad would be considered an act of “treason” against our own school the readers can rest assured that we would have refrained from doing so.

Several readers expressed a dissatisfaction in presenting an off campus opportunity instead of on campus opportunities, accomplishments and events. It is the mission of the Paw Print to focus editorials and articles on USF specific topics. With that being said, one of the challenges the Paw Print consistently faces is finding students who are willing to contribute. In short, USF has plenty of newsworthy topics to report; our staff is just too small to cover each of them. Moving forward, the concerns expressed by students as a result of this ad leave us hoping that these same students will be inspired to help the Paw Print be more effective and efficient in our coverage of the USF campus. The Paw Print wants students to take advantage of the opportunity to make their voices heard regarding things which they are passionate about.

Furthermore, the Paw Print staff would be thrilled to accept advertisements from local businesses. In fact, historically the Paw Print staff has attempted to solicit advertisements from local organizations. However, as the Paw Print does function under a traditional business model we also consider advertisers from beyond our local community.

Most importantly, the representatives of the Paw Print would like to apologize for any misunderstandings as a result of printing the previously mentioned advertisement. The decision to print this ad was a result of considering potential benefits and potential consequences. We appreciate the concern expressed by our readers and will use the feedback we received in future decision making processes. If our audience finds that this response raises more questions or does not adequately respond to all of their concerns we invite them to contact us via e-mail at pawprint@cougars.sf.edu. It is our intention that any and all concerns be addressed and our readers know that we value their input.

Sincerely,

Jaimie, Kristen & Beth

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April 29 – May 3, 2013 – Final Exams (Good Luck!)

May 4, 2013 – Commencement Ceremonies