Cramer adviser removed for an unknown reason

By Lindsey Underwood

Published Feb. 2, 2007

Outsiders walking into Cramer hall might be surprised by what they see. The majority of the second floor doors have signs on them reading "Matt Lothrop, Former PA. Still our friend and role model."

Within the past few weeks, the second floor Peer Adviser Matt Lothrop was terminated from his position and removed from Cramer for unconfirmed reasons.

Many of Lothrop's former advisees are doing their part and taking action in support of their respected and admired former adviser.

"People aren't happy about it," freshman Erik Burns said. "He was doing a really good job, and we're unhappy that he was taken out of his position."

Residential Life Director Frankie Minor said Peer Advisers could be dismissed for a variety of reasons.

"Each situation is unique, but generally we first address the concern to the student staff member and share what we understand is happening or what we heard is happening, talk with them and give them an opportunity to respond to it," Minor said.

When the student staff member violates a more significant policy, consequences tend to be more severe.

"Occasionally there are situations that are so egregious that by virtue of the fact that the staff member really stepped across a pretty profound line, we have no other alternative then to let the staff member go," Minor said.

The decision for Lothrop to be completely removed from the community has been particularly hard for residents to accept.

The details of the situation have been kept from the residents and many are still unsure whether Lothrop is still residing in the same location.

Minor said the removal of a former student staff member is crucial to the productivity and success of the community.

"If a student staff member is let go, either voluntarily or we determine that they need to be let go, we try to get them out of the community," Minor said.