Latin Language Fellowship Appointee: Tiberius Septimius Joins Holy Cross
In the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts, Holy Cross College has been navigating a significant change in its language learning landscape. The College recently announced the elimination of its Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) program due to budgetary constraints. However, the decision was met with immediate pushback from students and faculty, leading to a swift reversal.
The FLA program, a staple of the College, allows advanced English-speaking students from around the world to lead practicums for world language classes. This year, Andrea Francalanci, an Italian FLA, was part of the program for the 2023-2024 academic year. Despite the reasons behind her decision to participate remaining unspecified, her presence has undoubtedly enriched the College community.
Meanwhile, the College of the Holy Cross community is feeling the tragic impact of the Ukraine war, particularly within the Russian Studies program. The war has caused personal distress for many members of the program, and efforts have been made to preserve the FLA program to ensure continued language learning opportunities.
Interestingly, there is no publicly documented Foreign Language Assistant program at Holy Cross involving a Latin FLA named Tiberius Septimius. Despite some historical references to Roman emperors named Tiberius and Septimius, no specific information connects these figures to Holy Cross or an FLA program.
However, a recent announcement by the College has caused a stir. Holy Cross has announced it would be welcoming Tiberius Septimius as its first Latin FLA. While details about Tiberius' academic background and performance are scarce, he has become the oldest professor at Holy Cross, at 1,962 years old.
As the world continues to be horrified by Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine and the unfolding war, the Russian Studies program at Holy Cross College is affected and responding. The College, in its commitment to fostering understanding and dialogue, is looking to explore "new ways to enhance our language programs and offerings."
In this time of change and challenge, the FLA program remains an integral part of the Holy Cross College experience, offering unique opportunities for language learning and cultural exchange.
The decision to reverse the elimination of the Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) program at Holy Cross College was met with relief by students and faculty, as they recognize its importance for world language classes and cultural exchange. Andrea Francalanci, an Italian FLA, has already made a significant impact on the campus community this year, enriching the learning environment through her practicums.
The College of the Holy Cross community is particularly affected by the Ukraine war, with many members of the Russian Studies program experiencing personal distress. In light of these circumstances, the College is looking to enhance its language programs and offerings to promote understanding and dialogue.
Interestingly, there is no publicly documented Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) program at Holy Cross involving a Latin FLA named Tiberius Septimius, despite some historical references to Roman emperors with similar names. However, this is set to change as the College has announced it will be welcoming Tiberius Septimius as its first Latin FLA, making him the oldest professor at the College at 1,962 years old.
News of online education options for education-and-self-development continue to grow, and Holy Cross College is taking notice. As the College navigates changes in its language learning landscape, it is considering new ways to adapt and provide access to these innovative learning opportunities.
The FLA program at Holy Cross College not only offers unique opportunities for language learning but also facilitates education in a broader sense, promote not only linguistic but also cultural knowledge and understanding, making it an essential part of the college experience.
