Greetings,

We acknowledge and thank the Commission for the message sent on the 15th of February to former students of Knox College. We hope that this marks the beginning of increased dialogue between the Presbyterian Commission, Knox College, Knox College Students Club and members of the Knox Alumni with regards to proposed changes to life at Knox.

As students and supporters of Knox College, we take a close interest in the "paradigm shift" that has been announced as a result of the recent review. For many of us, Knox fostered personal growth, a culture of achievement and a strong sense of the value of community through the many academic, cultural and social opportunities it provides.

Doubtless some changes are necessary to ensure health, safety and responsible behaviour. But we are concerned that such changes may sweep more broadly than is necessary to achieve these legitimate objectives. 

In particular, we are concerned that safety issues are being conflated with broader, subjective cultural aspects under an opaque call for a "culture change". For example the alleged proposal to remove regular semi-formal dinners- which we believe create a special time in the day for diverse discourse and community- is disconnected with the University's interest in health and safety. Yet it is one of the many cultural aspects that help to build a community that many apply to join, and all remember.

We are confident that those involved in this process have the best of intentions. But culture is a subjective matter and benefits from a wide range of views. As members of the College community, we want our views to be heard too. This is not possible without seeing a clear set of proposals, openly available for comment and debate.

At a time where our alumni are being asked to "give back" it seems reasonable to hear their views on the institutions that lay claim to our support. It seems reasonable to hear the views of students who applied on the basis of their understanding of the College at the time. And it seems reasonable to hear the views of the wider community. Whether grounded in the University's commitment to free and open debate, or in the Presbyterian Church's statement that "Presbyterianism means everybody is involved in decision-making at all levels", we believe the full Knox Community deserves a fair hearing. Together we can ensure that Knox’s “best traditions” are indeed maintained.

We therefore have a simple request: 

(a) that the Commission publishes your proposed changes as soon as practicable, and (b) that the Commission requests public submissions on these changes before making any final decisions.

We welcome all communication with the Presbyterian Commission. Please get in touch with us at the email shown below.

Yours sincerely,

Knox College Residents, Alumni and Supporters
knoxcollegealumni@gmail.com