September: The Daily publishes an article detailing a new Office of Residential Life and Learning policy prohibiting sex in dorm rooms "while one's roommate is present in the room." For the next month, Tufts' new policy is thrust into the national spotlight, becoming the subject of media scrutiny and the target of late-night talk show personalities, even garnering a mention on "Saturday Night Live."
September—November: Worries about H1N1 influenza spread across campus as the number of students reporting influenza-like symptoms increased. Tufts procures a limited supply of the scarce H1N1 vaccine, which it offers to "high-risk" individuals, and implements emergency management procedures, including quarantines.
November: At $51,088 for the academic year, Tufts takes the title of most expensive school in Massachusetts, beating out Boston College and Harvard University. Tufts' tuition increases 3.5 percent over the previous year.
February: The previously infamous Winter Bash, relocated to the Sheraton Boston Hotel and rebranded "Break the Ice," draws approximately 2,700 students. Marred in past years by rampant drunkenness and public urination, the new event goes smoothly — save for chaos and long lines at the coat check.
February: University President Lawrence Bacow announces that he will retire from the presidency in June 2011 after he finishes his ten-year tenure. The 13-person Presidential Search Committee forms with plans to conclude its search by the end of 2010.
March: Heavy storms buffet the Hill with record levels of rainfall, causing floods in several on-campus dorms and academic buildings.
March: The steering committee decides to ban alcohol from Tufts' annual Spring Fling event. The decision is one result of a year-long debate over changes to the university's alcohol policy.
May: A water main break in Weston disrupts the water supply to parts of the greater Boston area — including Tufts' Medford-Somerville campus — on the same day as Tufts' annual outdoor Spring Fling concert. A boil water advisory is effected for almost three days. Tufts administrators draw praise for their effective response to the crisis.
