By Robert P. Gittens

I’m proud to have the opportunity to promote not just the achievements of faculty and students, but the work of NU’s Urban Outreach Council, the Center for Community Service and the Center for the Study of Sport in Society as well. I am painfully aware that too often, the stories of Northeastern’s contributions to the community are overshadowed by the latest negative headline. Too often, these stories are used to define the university, so that when I talk about the great things you do, people remember these stories and ask, “What is it with your students?”

Let me say very clearly that I know, as you do, the overwhelming majority of students at Northeastern are good sports fans and good citizens. We all want to be proud of our school and none want the actions of a few to diminish the value of the education we’ve received or cheapen the contributions we’ve made to our community. So, as the Patriots prepare for Super Bowl Sunday, let’s prepare for a victory celebration we can all take pride in.

The damage done to our reputation by last year’s riot will not be repaired overnight, but we can all do something now to begin that reparation and bring our reputation closer to the reality of who we are as a university. We have the power to choose what next Monday’s post-game story will be.

For students who feel they have been unfairly judged because of the actions of their peers, this scrutiny presents an opportunity to dispel those perceptions and change that judgment. To do so, you must accept the following challenge: Enjoy the Super Bowl, celebrate (hopefully) a Pats victory and stay away from crowds, which can quickly become dangerous. This Sunday, I hope to celebrate another Boston sports championship. On Monday morning, I hope to quietly celebrate something more significant — my pride as an NU alumnus and employee.

– Robert P. Gittens is the vice president for public affairs.