THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, September 30, 1996 TAG: 9609280011
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A8 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 32 lines
As a parent of two student/athletes at Virginia Wesleyan College, I have come to realize there is something special at the college - a true caring and courtesy.
An incident that occurred recently needs to be retold.
The women's soccer team had been scheduled to play a match in Lynchburg that ended up being canceled due to the tremendous rains and flooding which were remnants of tropical storm Fran. The coach announced the make-up game was scheduled for Monday, Sept. 23, which also happened to be the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur. My daughter questioned why she should have to make a decision between religion and sports.
I contacted Donald Forsyth, the athletic director of the college, and explained my dilemma. In no time at all, a call went in to Lynchburg College with the request for a date change. Mr. Forsyth also informed me that the Jewish high holidays for 1997 would be considered in making plans for Parents Weekend and Homecoming.
I learned later that Lynchburg College had agreed to play on another day so my daughter would be able to be with her family in synagogue on Monday and with her teammates in Lynchburg on Tuesday.
As a member of a religious minority, I have no qualms about sending my children to Virginia Wesleyan. The college's willingness to reschedule this game reaffirms its dedication to the Center for Religious Freedom.
MARILYN HECHTKOPF
Virginia Beach, Sept. 22, 1996 by CNB