This summer, The University News’ longtime adviser and mentor Avis Meyer, Ph.D., was banned from the student newsroom by the administration after more than 30 years of service. If he tries to reenter, he could face any number of serious punishments.

University administrators’ official explanation for this action: Since a new, full-time adviser was hired last year, Meyer’s contribution to the paper contradicts our current adviser, creating a confusing and stressful environment for student journalists.

We don’t see it that way.

We welcome Meyer to the newsroom. We value his wisdom and perspective. We relish his knowledge and connections. We enjoy his presence and camaraderie. We respect the time that he contributes and his editing skills. We are proud of his insight and fearlessness.

In short, Saint Louis University’s student journalists want Meyer to have access to the newsroom he’s nurtured since Nixon was president.

He is a valued member of our community. By banning him from the newsroom, administrators deprive student journalists of the knowledge and experience of one of the most skilled faculty members at SLU.

Meyer is a vocal critic of University President Lawrence Biondi, S.J., and his policies. Administrators flatly reject the notion that Meyer’s criticism had anything to do with their decision to keep him from the newsroom.

We find this difficult to believe.

Meyer’s critiques of University policy, both positive and negative, are a necessary part of the journalistic process. Administrators only detract from sound thought when they seem to punish verbal dissent that ruffles well-laid plans.

Furthermore, this sets a disturbing precedent for SLU faculty who choose to involve themselves with undergraduate organizations. How much can faculty advisers say before they face a similar fate? How close can they get to student affairs? Must they stifle all dissent in order to interact with student groups? Will entering the newsroom put other faculty members in danger of punishment? The University community should be alarmed by this violation of academic freedom.

The administration might be able to keep Meyer from the newsroom while the paper is being produced, but they cannot keep his ever-present spirit from continuing to inspire us.

Dr. Meyer remains a friend and mentor to The University News-even if he is not allowed to be physically present when we assemble this clarion of free speech.