Students and faculty held two sessions about Quakerism on Sept. 6 and 13 in the New Garden Friends worship room to teach first-years about the five Quaker testimonies: direct access to God, peace, simplicity, integrity and equality. “Last year some seniors reported in their exit surveys that they didn’t quite know the meaning of Quakerism and wanted to learn more of the values,” said Director of First-Year Programs Shelley Crisp. In response to the seniors’ requests, Quaker values are being incorporated in the FYE classes in a different manner than last year, including combined classes and guest speakers.

“[Rather than a true Quaker meeting] we decided to initiate discussions about the testimonies. It’s a trial, and we’re really curious to see the students’ response,” Crisp said.

As the Director of the Guilford Initiative of Faith and Practice, Sara Beth Terrell said that the new approach is an opportunity for students to develop an appreciation for the school’s Quaker traditions.

“What I am trying to do,” said Terrell, “is to help students understand the forces that helped Guilford become what it is today.”

During the second meeting Terrell invited students and faculty to give their thoughts, after her introductory comments. Scattered among the audience were five respondents who asked questions about integrating the testimonies into everyday Guilford life. After all the questions were answered, English Professor Jim Hood spoke about the foundations of the Quaker faith.

Senior Liz Baltaro, who was one of the students to speak, said, “It’s great to bring in a little Quakerism at the start. Quakerism is what makes Guilford unique. This [new approach] actually works better than just teachers telling the Quaker testimonies, because students get to hear a discussion.”

After the meeting, several students spoke positively about the experience: “I liked it. A lot of what was said, I agreed with, especially the parts about integrity and honesty and how they apply in Quaker beliefs,” said first-year Zack Haber.

“It gave us a great understanding of Quakerism and how it relates to Guilford,” said first-year Ashley Kangarloo.