In the Service of Humanity?

Regarding “Sister of Kidnapped Ph.D. Student Seeks Help” (On the Campus, October issue): This is a heartbreaking case, deeply troubling for the prospects of scholars the world over doing research in disaster/war-torn regions — exactly those parts of the world which urgently need the kind of in-depth analysis which a student like Elizabeth Tsurkov can provide. I ask the administration to recall the Princeton motto, “In the nation’s service and the service of humanity.”

The administration of the University needs to act to help Elizabeth Tsurkov. Princeton’s ties to the State Department and the diplomatic corps are many. I hope the administration will use them to act in service to this brave young woman.