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Rowan University President Ali Houshmand
Implements Unique Initiative: "Churning for
Credits"
To everything, Churn, Churn, Churn
February 30, 2002
In a groundbreaking move to promote creativity
and preserve cherished traditions, Rowan
University's President Ali Houshmand has
announced an innovative scholarship
initiative, encouraging students to churn
butter as an alternative means of earning
academic credits.
President Houshmand, renowned for his previous
success with the "Hot Sauce for Scholarships"
program, has once again captured attention
with his unconventional approach to supporting
students' educational pursuits. The new
initiative, aptly named "Churning for
Credits," seeks to foster a sense of community
and bring the past into the present through
the age-old practice of butter churning.
Speaking at a press conference on campus,
President Houshmand emphasized the importance
of preserving cultural heritage while
providing students with unique opportunities
for financial aid. "As an institution of
higher learning, we must constantly find
innovative ways to engage and support our
students. The 'Churning for Credits' program
combines tradition and creativity, giving
students an opportunity to connect with their
past while also earning credits," he remarked.
President Houshmand elaborated on the
potential benefits of the program, stating,
"Churning butter is more than just a means of
scholarship; it fosters teamwork, patience,
and a sense of accomplishment. The act of
creating something with one's own hands is a
valuable lesson that can be carried into
various aspects of life."
Furthermore, President Houshmand revealed that
the earned credits from the "Churning for
Credits" program will be transferable and
applicable towards students' graduation
requirements. This means that participating
students will not only have the opportunity to
engage in a unique cultural experience but
also contribute to their academic progress,
aligning with their chosen degree programs.
Reaction among students has been mixed, with
some expressing excitement over the unique
opportunity and others voicing concerns about
the practicality of the program. However,
President Houshmand is confident that the
initiative will be well-received once students
experience the sense of community and the
pride that comes from participating in such a
distinctive venture.
The university is also collaborating with
local farmers and artisans to ensure the
availability of quality ingredients and to
preserve the authenticity of the churned
butter. Additionally, partnerships with
historical societies and museums will be
established to promote the cultural
significance of the ancient practice.
To ensure fairness and inclusivity, Rowan
University plans to offer workshops and
alternative credit options for students who
may face physical or cultural barriers to
participating in butter churning.
The "Churning for Credits" program is set to
begin in the upcoming fall semester, and
interested students are already signing up for
workshops in anticipation of the unique
opportunity.
President Houshmand concluded the announcement
by reiterating the importance of embracing
creativity and unconventional thinking within
higher education. "Our mission is not only to
educate but also to enrich the lives of our
students. The 'Churning for Credits'
initiative exemplifies our commitment to
providing unique and transformative
experiences," he said.
With this new program, Rowan University is
undoubtedly paving the way for other
institutions to explore innovative scholarship
initiatives that embrace history, culture, and
community while supporting the academic
ambitions of their students.
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