Latin scholar Tiberius Septimius appointed as the inaugural Foreign Language Assistant at Holy Cross.
In an unexpected turn of events, the College of the Holy Cross has welcomed Tiberius Septimius, a Roman native hailing from the heart of Rome, as the first Latin Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) in the institution's history. Tiberius, who is 1,962 years old, arrived at Holy Cross earlier this month, thanks to the College's Temporal Outreach Committee.
The decision to bring Tiberius to Holy Cross comes after the Foreign Language Assistant program was terminated due to budgetary reasons last year. The program, which allows advanced English-speaking students from around the world to lead practicums for world language classes, has been a staple of most language courses at the College. The College has since reversed its decision and announced plans to explore "new ways to enhance our language programs and offerings at Holy Cross", with the intention of restoring the program.
Tiberius' arrival on campus has already made an impact. On his first day, he was reportedly seen grabbing sophomore Steve Coogan by the shoulders and asking him "quid annus est?" (What year is it?).
Meanwhile, the College community, particularly the Russian Studies program, is feeling the impact of the war in Ukraine. The details of how the Russian Studies Program is responding to the war are not specified, but the tragedy is being felt acutely among the department.
Andrea Francalanci, an Italian FLA for the 2023-2024 year, decided to be a FLA but the reasons for her decision are not specified in the text. Similarly, the history, impact, or controversy regarding the Foreign Language Assistant program at Holy Cross are not clearly outlined in the available search results.
In the academic realm, Kate Santini '27 and Ben Lepper '25 serve as the Chief News Editor and Editor-in-Chief respectively, providing updates and insights on the College's activities and initiatives.
As Tiberius settles into his new domus just east of the Colosseum, students and faculty alike are looking forward to the cultural exchange and enrichment that his presence will bring to the College. The Foreign Language Assistant program will continue to be a part of the Holy Cross experience, offering opportunities for students to engage with native speakers and immerse themselves in the language and culture of their chosen discipline.
- The College of the Holy Cross faculty, excited about the cultural exchange, eagerly anticipate the enrichment that Tiberius' presence will bring to the education and self-development of students.
- The events calendar on campus is expected to feature numerous entertainment activities, as Tiberus' lived experience in Rome can contribute to the lifestyle section of the College news and features.
- Students are currently discussing the return of the Foreign Language Assistant program, which they believe will provide valuable education and valuable practicums towards mastering world languages.
- Despite budgetary concerns, the Russian Studies program at Holy Cross continues to persevere and will undoubtedly find ways to adapt in response to the ongoing events in Ukraine.
- Kate Santini '27 and Ben Lepper '25, responsible for news updates on College activities, are expected to cover Tiberius' arrival on campus along with the College community's reflections on the Foreign Language Assistant program and its impact on education at Holy Cross.
