Editors Go Too Far With Prank At University of Utah

by Caitlin McCoy

Nine senior editors at the University of Utah, took there pranking capabilities way too far. Writing for the The Daily Utah Chronicle, these students annually make a joke out of an article when the school year is coming to a close. This year, they decided to make words out of the drop caps. However, the words spelled out were not funny or appropriate. They were very offensive and the administration at the University of Utah will not let these students slide by. It is said that they have violated the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities which covers actions that are an “intentional disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings or university activities."

To get this situation resolved, the nine students must have a meeting with the Office of the Dean of Students. Until the meeting, these students cannot receive their diploma although they can walk. However, Adam Goldstein, the attorney advocate for the Student Press Law Center, disagrees. He believes that the students have the right to graduate regardless because the first amendment protects the right to offend people.

Goldstein’s point regarding the first amendment is not a strong one. Yes, the first amendment ensures writers the ability to publish their opinions but that doesn’t mean writers should take advantage of it in a negative light. Respect, integrity, and principles are all key factors that should be standards no matter what free speech laws allow. I believe that Goldstein is being too lenient. The students should be expected to act properly to a certain extent. It is very reasonable that the school plans on punishing these students for conducting themselves so poorly. Pranks can be funny but this definitely crossed the line. These college seniors should be beyond these types of pranks and understand that they are not sending a good message to outside readers about the school.