By Dana Labarry
Arizona Daily Wildcat
September 30, 1997

Newman Center offers sanctuary

Editor:

I am writing in response to Mike Mason's letter to the editor of September 29. I am a member of the Catholic Newman Center, which is one of his designated "useless buildings that take up valuable campus space." He made the comment that the "presence [of religious organizations] clearly violates the separation of church and state mandated by the Constitution." However, the Newman Center sits on private property that is owned by the Diocese of Tucson. He also says "these buildings contribute nothing to the UA academic environment." Yes, it is true that a student can't take classes that count for credit at the Newman Center. However, the college experience has to encompass much more than education. The Newman Center offers a place of sanctuary for many students.

So, Mike Mason, the Newman Center is not "useless." It has provided support and help for many people in a myriad of ways over the seventy years it has served the University of Arizona campus. I think that is as important as parking spaces and education.

Dana Labarry
Accounting junior