Fresh Look at Clubs’ Relations with University

A task force of students, alumni, and administrators is reviewing the relationship between the University and the eating clubs, with inclusivity among the topics.

“One of the nice discoveries has been that, when you look at the clubs as a whole, there are very few instances in which they don’t mirror the student body,” said W. Rochelle Calhoun, vice president for campus life. Some clubs are not as representative as others, she said, and the group has had “good conversations” about recruiting and retaining members.

Calhoun noted that the clubs are interested in learning why students decide to join or not to join, and what type of hurdles exist — financial and other barriers. 

In 2009–10, another task force took a broad look at relations between the University and the eating clubs. That group’s findings will be revisited, Calhoun said, and recent studies of University meal plans and of the residential-college system will be reviewed. A final report is expected in April. 

The 11 clubs have attracted between 67 and 70 percent of juniors and seniors in recent years, she said, describing the University’s relationship with the clubs as “very strong.”

Alumni who would like to offer their views can email Calhoun at rochelle.calhoun@princeton.edu.