To the Editors:

I think the decision to invite Caroll Spinney is a public relations nightmare. While I think Spinney will give a fine speech, the fact that she is “Big Bird” far outweighs anything she might have to say. This decision makes Villanova look like a joke institution, which it is not. Proof of this is the fact that Villanova is now the brunt of many jokes and news reports, which have to qualify the fact that Spinney will not show up in costume. Perhaps Villanova should end the pain early and give honoary degrees to Bert and Ernie too.

Sincerely,Peter Burchett ’02