"We're losing 20 years of experience in that position," King added.

HAND leaders said they would be equally sorry to see Epstein leave her position.

"Gail has six years of experience in her position," said Yee, who is an editor of The Crimson.

Johnson said a national search for a new assistant dean should not be necessary. He said either Epstein or he could be named to the job, and the other person would be comfortable working as a subordinate.

"I think it's just the problem of affixing the assistant dean title to one of our positions," he said.

"Why the need for a search?" Johnson asked. "Even if Gail and I were welcome to participate in the search and apply, isn't the whole thing unnecessary and won't it have an effect on the programs?"

Advisory Committee

The College report recommends establishing a faculty committee to oversee educational and financial issues in public service.

But the student leaders said they are concerned that the proposed committee would have oversight over how the programs are being run.

That may be precisely the administration's intent. PBHA--traditionally known as a student-run, staff-supported organization--has come under fire after 24 traffic accidents this summer caused the University insurance office to launch an investigation into the group's vehicles policy.

HAND and PBHA leaders said Saturday that their meeting with the deans had assured them that the proposed faculty committee would serve primarily to oversee funding for public service. The committee will also help bring students and faculty together in service initiative such as those proposed by Professor Robert A. Coles '50 this fall, according to the students.

But an administration source said yesterday that one of the primary responsibilities of the committee would be to oversee the safety of those served by student volunteers.

Staffing Levels

Community service leaders said their meeting on October 21 had also assured them that there would be no reduction in the levels of current staffing at PBHA and in the Office of Public Service.

PBH applies annually to the Faculty of Arts and Sciences for funding of its 10 staff positions. But under the College report's proposals, President Neil L. Rudenstine would solicit funds from the University's ongoing capital campaign to endow funding for staff positions.