Williams College recently completed one of many multi-million dollar renovation projects to upgrade the quad outside Sawyer library. There is now a green, some new pathways, and scores of marble slabs that serve as benches and tastefully haphazard piles of Greco-Roman common area. The estimated cost for each of the marble slabs is $10,000, not including installation or transportation labor. 

Meanwhile, according to the Williams Committee of Transparency and Accountability, "there are only 8 therapists and 1 psychiatrist who serve a community of 2,200. At least 1 in 5 college students (or 440 Williams students) have some kind of mental illness. Even if all 8 worked full time, there would not be enough time for all students with need to be served. Furthermore, 3 of 8 are 'fellows,' who [are not licensed, paid less, and on short term contracts]. Of the 3 people of color on staff, two are fellows. There are few LGBT staff, and no transgender staff."

I propose that Williams sell 4-5 marble slabs to hire a new therapist for one year (estimated salary is about $45,000 a year). Perhaps we could put one pile up for sale and replace it with some cheaper rock. 

Please read more at http://thepainessays.tumblr.com/post/152020835221/marble-slabs-petition