The Modfest celebration originally planned for this semester might not take place, according to Assistant Dean of Student Life Alwina Bennett. Bennett said escalation in complaints from University police, Waltham residents and the increasing concern over underage drinking were significant factors that contributed to this development.

"The community has developed concerns about college students, alcohol use and how their parties impact their neighborhoods," Bennett said. "The last two Modfests resulted in noise complaints from the city of Waltham ... and raised concerns with the Waltham Police Department."

Class of 2005 Senator Mitchel Balsam said that he, Bennett and others in Student Life are trying to have an event tantamount to Modfest, if the semi-annual outdoor celebration usually held in the Foster Mods Quad is discontinued.

"I have no question about Alwina's wanting to make our lives fun," Balsam said. "But I think Modfest is one of the few things that Brandeis considers a cool social event, and to take it away from the most popular senior residence takes away from its appeal. But there will be some really serious parties for seniors no matter what."

According to Bennett, this 12-year tradition only became a matter of concern in the last three years, when the senior class joined with the University to sponsor this celebration.

"Now it became University money and resources that planned this event and it got very, very big very, very fast," Bennett said. "Student Events, WBRS and student senators were all involved so it grew."

Bennett said that she is currently talking with Director of Public Safety Ed Callahan about the possibility of holding Modfest next semester and fostering some sort of festival either on or off campus.

"What students really like [about Modfest] is meeting with friends," Bennett said. "I would like to have a DJ, have alcohol to those who are of age as well as alternative drinks for those who are not, and make this a new tradition for the fall semester."

Class of 2005 Senator Alex Amann '05 said that not having Modfest greatly impacts the senior experience and he would prefer to have a similar one in its place.

"I've been to Modfest before and it's really fun. If it's not Modfest then it should be something that the seniors and I, along with the other senators, can come up with."

Allison Warren '05, a resident of the Foster Mods, said although she realizes the negative byproducts of the parties, she is upset at the prospect of them being discontinued. She also said the department of Student Life and class senators should tell the residents about such decisions.

"There are many negatives with it," Warren said. "But doing it behind the students-why haven't they told us? Why haven't they asked the people in the Mods what their opinion is?