It is beyond comprehension that the College would eliminate the Varsity Swimming and Diving Programs for what is reported to be for the purpose of reducing expenses by $212,000 annually.  Does the college view this program as strictly a line item on the budget?  How do you measure the value of other line items?  How do you value intangibles? 

I graduated in the class of '76 and was a member of the varsity women's swim team.  I have consistently donated to the college fund and other Dartmouth funds since my graduation in 1976.  As an alumna, I had confidence in the college's discretion to manage and disperse the Dartmouth College Fund.  You have lost my confidence and the confidence of many other alumni and students.  I urge you to reverse your decision. 

It is clear from the negative press that you need to be proactive and develop a strategy to save face immediately.  It is your responsibility as leaders for the college and athletic programs to turn this embarrassing decision into an opportunity to build support for the varsity swimming and diving program and other programs that are fundamental to Dartmouth College.  I believe you owe it to the students, alumni, parents of students, faculty to maintain programs to equal if not exceed those offered at comparable colleges in the Ivy League and other fine institutions.  The cost and number of participants in a program are not the only measure of expense and value, please open your minds and wake up. 

 
I stand firm with my opinion voiced in an earlier email:
Outrageous shortsightedness on the part of you and all who supported the decision to eliminate the Dartmouth Swim Teams.  Money was a false pretense, you and all alumni know it.  It's not too late to correct your poor judgment.  Reinstate the teams now!!!!!!!!!
 
Judy Yablong '76
Varsity Letter in Swimming for the 1st Dartmouth Women's Swim Team