While I am only the parent, not the student at Grinnell, I want to chime in and say that actually as a parent I would be more concerned about a college that didn’t allow for the level of openness and conversation that is happening at Grinnell right now. I challenge anyone to find at top tier small liberal arts college without challenges related to the environment. That is not to say that I’m happy to hear about the situations that have been discussed on the active parent listserv. I only say that I do feel Grinnell has been unfairly singled out for what is likely happening at many other comparable institutions as well.
In terms of emotional and mental health support that has been lacking. However I also understand the challenges the college faces being in such a small town with access to larger supports at least an hour away.
My D has had an amazing 3 years at Grinnell. It’s unfortunate that this is darkening the school’s reputation. The media has the power to do that! Think about UVA’s recent scandal. And I’m sure if reporters dug deeper they would find many, many more.