University of Rhode Island - Renaissance / Grist Yearbook (Kingston, RI)

Page 9 text:

Watergate, a year later, seemed like just another pain in the ass, although we concerned ourselves with the details of our lives, we nevertheless were concerned w ith the big issue once again, th is time with a lot more cynicism. There was a lot to be dealt with, as it became clear that idealism w as a thing of the past and corruption was a tangible reality. We young people”, in an effort to shirk all thoughts of w hat plagued many of the people of our land, symbolically stressed the triumph of innocence and, forgetting the problems that surrounded us, shed our clothes in the guise of streaking. We were once again being rebels, but in a different and more peaceful way. C. Margeson

Page 8 text:

With the asset of hindsight and the liability of subjectiveness, we on the yearbook staff have more or less defined, as clearly as possible, the mood on the URI campus during the academic year 1974-75. That mood, however intangible it may be, has become clear to us as one of optimism. R. Kmerson Looking back on prior academic years, there were obvious prevailing ' moods’ on campus. 1970 was a year in w hich such a mood can be clearly defined. It was the year of revolution and a definite pessimism with the system. A year later, the pessimistic attitude prevailed, mixed with a feeling of being generally fed up with everything. The next two years were rampant w ith apathy. There were no more causes, and there was basic disillusionment. Life went on, as people became involved with the details of their lives.

Page 10 text:

Soon, the problems of Watergate were solved, and we turned to new prospects for the future. Hopefully, corruption would be cleaned up, and America and her people could roll up their sleeves and start anew. Here at URI, the fall semester began in earnest. In August, a new president was appointed in the country. Also in August, a new president came to the U niversitv of Rhode Island. P. Kieras