This article is the first of a two-part series that examines the controversy surrounding program houses.
The timing of the current review of the program houses on campus has aroused some controversy. Students have feared that with the University constantly on the lookout for means of saving money, the program houses might be deemed an unnecessary expense. Joseph Burke, the director of residential programs, acknowledged that while many would view the timing of the review as suspicious, he said that the review was planned before the economic downturn.