TommieMedia

St. Thomas students, faculty and members of the surrounding community filled the O’Shaughnessy Educational Center auditorium Monday night to hear Donna Brazile speak about the importance of mutual respect and unity in today’s world.

About 600 people came to listen to the CNN political contributor, ABC News consultant and veteran Democratic political strategist. Brazile came to campus for the CommUNITY series, which offers events and discussions to promote creating “a socially and intellectually conscious community.”

As buzz words like “green” and “sustainability” continue to gain popularity and momentum among universities nationwide, St. Thomas student clubs and campus services will strive to make a more environmentally conscious campus this year. 

The Salinas Valley distributor’s recall on “Queen Victoria” spinach because of salmonella concerns does not affect St. Thomas.

The recall is for two brands of bundled spinach that were harvested and sold to retailers in Minnesota, 11 other states and Canada between Sept. 1-3.

While the virus has been deadly, St. Thomas senior Emily Ross didn’t think having the H1N1 virus was all that terrible.

Michelle Branch will perform Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. for an outdoor concert, sponsored by STAR. The concert will be held on South Campus, similar to the Sara Bareilles concert last spring. 

Even during the best of economic times, it can be hard for students to scrape together enough money for St. Thomas’ private-school price tag. But as unemployment rates climb along with tuition costs, many students are frantically searching for ways to pay their tuition bills.

“Paying for this semester was really tough,” junior Jack Dowd said. “I’m taking out more loans, paying more out of the pocket, taking on two jobs and even taking from part of my little brother’s college fund. I’m planning on paying him back once I graduate and get a job.”

Because there is no convenient space, Campus Life has decided to not hold a homecoming dance this fall.