Rutgers University's Statement on Nicole "Snooki " Polizzi and her Comedy Act's Appearance on Campus

The Rutgers University Programming Association (RUPA) invited Snooki and another comedian, Adam Ace, to entertain students on campus.  RUPA is comprised of students who plan more than 140 programs and events throughout the academic year. The Comedy & Movies committee made the decision to invite Snooki and her comedy act based on input from students. No state funds, tuition money, or donor contributions are used for these events. The students use funds designated for student programming. The show was promoted as a comedy act, not an academic program or lecture.  As with any comedy show, the value of the content is subjective and students choose to attend based on their interests. The university does not censor the speakers or entertainers students choose to invite to campus.

RUPA programs this year have featured speakers such as Spike Lee (as part of the Writers at Rutgers series); and Vanessa Farquharson (an environmental journalist and author). Informational programs have included autism, how to start your own publication, and a discussion of the media and politics. RUPA has also held a number of charity events to raise money for various causes, including Rutgers Against Hunger and books for New Brunswick schoolchildren .

One of our student-run events, the 32-hour Rutgers Dance Marathon  -- which supports the non-medical needs of children with cancer and blood disorders  -- raised a record $380,351 over the weekend. 

Nearly 2,000 students expressed their wish to attend an event featuring Snooki and a second show was added. The cost for her appearance included the fee for Adam Ace, a comedian who has been named College Comedian of the Year by the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities, and the booking fee.

RUPA's mission is to provide a variety of cultural, educational, recreational and social events that appeal to the diverse student needs and interests. Before selecting a performer, RUPA members brainstorm ideas, look at national and campus trends in campus programming and collect student input through various strategies. RUPA maintains an annual programming budget and they decide how many large and small programs they are able to offer.