A case for change
March 25, 2026 1:36 PM
Remember when Barack Obama mobilized the masses of American voters under the banner of “keeping traditions”?
No. Nobody remembers that because it’s the opposite of what actually happened. He brought millions of people back into the political arena by emphasizing the importance of change, of adapting to modern conditions and governing in the appropriate way – not simply sticking to old policies because, well, they were traditional ones.
So why are we, as students of StFX, scoffing at change like an elderly couple being confronted with the issue of gay marriage?
Nearly each and every issue that was opposed by the student body this year was criticized as an attack on tradition.
I apologize to the demographic of students who believe their attendance at StFX to be intended for years of debauchery and belligerence. Personally, I want my degree to mean something when I leave, to increase my value in the market when I look for work or for post-graduate education.
The short sightedness of some students is aggravating. Is the purpose of a university degree not to augment our knowledge? To show potential employers that we’ve spent four years committed to studying particular topics and enhancing our intellect? I would far rather have StFX’s traditions to be of academic achievement, and not instances of public intoxication and podcasted ignorance.
I understand what students are afraid of – losing the valuable character of our small university. Truthfully though, that is not at risk.
During the World Wars, the Xaverian published letters recommending sending cigarettes to our fellow students overseas fighting the enemy. Why are we not advocating the widespread distribution of tobacco today? Would those students not fight for the maintenance of that tradition?
The character of the Xaverian spirit is not found within alcohol-induced moments forgotten the next morning. It is not found in the initiation rituals that get national media attention. It is not found in student-run security forces.
The Xaverian spirit is found within the relationships we establish in this small maritime village. The spirit is one that is not simply found, but it is developed over four years. It is established between individuals, from across the province, across the country, and across the world.
No matter what the era, no matter what the specific structure and no matter what social activities may be discouraged for their potential to be a detriment to the public image of the university, the Xaverian spirit will remain.
It will do so because year after year, class after class, generation after generation, we are all but the same. We up and leave our homes, be they local or abroad, and we come together in this town and learn not only in classroom, but from each other.
These years are as important for personal growth as they are for academic achievements, and StFX will always provide a unique opportunity for its students, no matter how things change.
