Let ATH speak for itself

The Nov. 24 editorial, "Let SLGs live on Central," is the second-the first is the Nov. 11 editorial, "Let sophomores live on [Central]"-I've read recently to propose that the Arts Theme House be transplanted to Central Campus. I've heard the suggestion floated before (although never, oddly enough, by any individuals familiar with the ATH). I'd like to take this opportunity, therefore, to offer the opinion of one actual Arts Theme House member and in-section resident. (I do not profess to speak for all ATH members.)

Our home, Edens 3B, was built specifically to serve as Duke's arts dorm. To this end, it contains practice rooms, multiple pianos and a visual arts studio. It is conveniently situated between the Nasher and main West Quad. ATH has been housed here since its inception in 1989.

Also, ATH is not a "themed living group" but a selective living group like any other SLG on campus. The social component of our group is extremely important to us all and should not be neglected merely because we have the word "theme" in our name.

It is unclear why The Chronicle's independent Editorial Board considers us obvious candidates for the move to Central. The Nov. 11 editorial mentions Central's proximity to the Nasher as an inducement for us, but this clearly arises from a fundamental lack of understanding of the nature of ATH. The Nasher is far from the alpha and omega of ATH activities. We take part in a wide range of cultural events all around campus-which would be much more difficult to do from Central. Indeed, a group that takes full advantage of the rich cultural resources available on campus seems like the least obvious candidate for isolation on Central.

I realize that we are not alone in our wish not to be moved to Central, yet we seem to be alone among selective living groups in being offered repeatedly as sacrifices to the gods of dorm rearrangement by individuals who understand our group poorly, if at all. It is increasingly disappointing to see the editorial board repeatedly ignore the facts about ATH, and I hope they will soon cease to do so and begin making more informed contributions to the housing discussion.

Rachel Stern

Trinity '11