Tilghman dines with Wilson students

The conversation covered a variety of issues, including sustainability initiatives, admissions and financial aid, study abroad and the negative stereotype of the typical Princeton student.

Tilghman began by commemorating former president Robert Goheen ’40, who passed away yesterday. She said that, before the changes Goheen brought to the University, Princeton could have been described as a “finishing school for southern gentlemen.”

“Goheen really started vamping up standards for Princeton,” she said. Tilghman cited the admission of women, the increased standards for professors and the increased diversity of the student body as Goheen’s biggest achievements.

Danny Growald ’11 asked Tilghman about the unique role Princeton plays as a leader in climate change and sustainability.

“One of the things we say in our energy plan is that University students must be leaders,” Tilghman said. “If we’re not doing anything in the area of the environment, there will be no incentive for anyone else to do anything.”

Tilghman answered Growald’s more specific inquiries about the University’s attitude towards the Kyoto Protocol by saying that the University is not convinced that certain aspects of Kyoto are the most cost-effective ways to attain the desired ends.

Steve Marcus ’10 asked about the University’s efforts to improve relations with the Borough and Township.

Since a lot of the town’s criticisms center on taxes, Tilghman cited studies that found the University to be “generous in terms of paying our fair share.”

“The community often forgets what this town would be without this University,” Tilghman added. She said that a walk down Nassau Street served as evidence of the economic capital University visitors contribute to the community.

Albert Fernandez ’11 asked about the impact of eliminating Early Decision on the University. Tilghman said that it was “completely unknown at this point.” She did note, however, that this year’s applicant pool was “larger, academically stronger and more diverse than any pool we’ve had,” indicating that the University has not seen a negative impact so far.

The discussion soon shifted to focus on the image of Princeton students as being politically apathetic, civically disengaged and driven foremost by potential futures in investment banking.

“I know that’s the stereotype, but I don’t believe it’s the reality,” Tilghman said. “I understand the Wall Street business mentality, but I think the reality is changing.”

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“What we haven’t done is tell the stories of how it’s changing and the ways it’s changing,” she noted.

Tilghman added, however, that it is “important for Princeton to be self-critical and constantly worry about the ways we’re not living up to our motto.”

When asked about the conservative constraints placed on the University by alumni, Tilghman said that one of the things she really admired about Princeton was its “capacity to change, despite its love affair with traditions.”

Students were impressed by Tilghman’s candid responses to confrontational questions.

“It was great that we were able to discuss different issues with the ultimate authority,” Amanda Tuninetti ’11 said.

“I give her a lot of credit for being so open,” Adam Bradlow ’11 said. “She was very generous with her time.” Bradlow is also a columnist for The Daily Princetonian.

The dinner was organized by Bradlow and Shawn Kothari ’11, co-chairs of the Wilson College academic council.