Washington & Lee University

CASA HISPÁNICA

CONTRACT

MISSION: 

Washington and Lee University, in its support of the Casa Hispánica, seeks to establish a social and academic environment in which students promote communication in Spanish and enhanced knowledge of the numerous and different Hispanic cultures.  One student has stated that the Casa “should be an open and happy environment in which students feel attracted to the strength and flavor characteristic of Latino surroundings.” Another student has described the house’s mission to be the formation of “a family among Hispanics and all those who wish to know and be a part of Hispanic cultures.”

Both inside and outside the house, Casa residents will share meals and activities that have to do with the Hispanic world.  Residents of the Casa will have the responsiblity to participate in residential and activity planning and to enforce respect of the Spanish-only rule in common areas.

The Resident Director and Resident Assistant will agree to ensure the smooth functioning of the Casa as a communal living arrangement.  They will also design and implement academic and social activities for residents and their guests.  The Casa will provide students with an environment, a true “home,” in which they will learn and share language and culture.  The Casa will benefit Washington and Lee University as it seeks to extend its own international mission in that it will exert positive forces both from and towards the house to broaden comprehension among global cultures.

CONTRACT: 

As a resident of the Casa Hispánica, I agree to abide by the following rules and guidelines:

1.  I will speak Spanish to the best of my ability at all times in all common areas of the house, and will submit to any penalties—as determined by the house committee—for not doing so.

2.  I will take a predetermined number of meals with other residents of the house.  The number of meals will be decided upon by residents at their first meeting during the spring term.

3.  I will refrain from smoking in the house (as stated also in the University’s RENTAL LICENSE).

4.  I will meet with all other house residents, the Resident Director, and the Resident Assistant of the house at least once a month to discuss matters pertaining to the house.

5.  I will participate in all planned activities, including meals and house meetings.  The number of activities will be decided upon by residents at their first meeting during the spring term.

6.  I agree to support all programs that benefit the House.

7.  I agree to confront other house members if they are not abiding by the contract—especially as it pertains to the Spanish-only clause (see proviso 1), as I expect they will confront me in a similar situation.

8.  I agree to abide by all actions voted upon by house members at formal meetings.

9.  I agree that any (inter-)personal conduct considered deleterious to house unity and/or to the success of curricular activities may be grounds for expulsion from the Casa Hispánica.

Student’s name (printed) ___________________________________________________

Student ID # _____________________________________________________________

Student signature ________________________________     Date ___________________