Susquehanna University is facing backlash for its announcement this week that it is dropping the name “Crusaders” from its athletic teams. University officials said they did not think the name was unifying for the campus and might offend some people. But many alumni are objecting, saying the college is ignoring its own history. At some colleges and high schools, variations of the nickname are a reference to the military campaigns against Muslims in the Middle East in the Middle Ages. But at Susquehanna, the name “Crusaders” has a different meaning.
As described on the university's website: “The nickname ‘Crusaders’ was adopted in the 1920s when a new athletics director, Luther Grossman, inaugurated a new athletics policy at the university. In the years following World War I, Susquehanna became briefly embroiled in ‘big-time’ intercollegiate football, which in those days involved importing players who, strictly speaking, were neither students nor amateurs. Grossman, however, was determined that SU field football teams that were truly representative of the student body and, furthermore, that an extensive intramurals program be developed to offer all SU students some opportunity to engage in athletic competition. Grossman’s campaign was termed a ‘Crusade,’ hence the nickname ‘Crusaders.’”
Opinions on Inside Higher Ed
Inside Higher Ed’s Blog U
Inside Higher Ed Careers
Hiring? Post A Job Today!
Browse Faculty Jobs
Browse Administrative Jobs
Browse Executive Administration Jobs
College Pages
Popular Right Now
How to write an effective diversity statement (essay)
10 strategies to support students and help them learn during the coronavirus crisis (opinion)
Long-term online learning in pandemic may impact students' well-being
Advice for students so they don't sound silly in emails (essay)
First faculty and staff outside health-care fields become eligible for COVID vaccines, but prioritiz
Wellness and Mental Health in 2020 Online Learning
Chapman professor who spoke at Jan. 6 pro-Trump rally retires
Live Updates: Latest News on Coronavirus and Higher Education
Expand commentsHide comments