The rash of incidents involving ISU football players is beginning to cast a shadow over the program and the university.

Although there is an understanding that people make mistakes and average students are guilty of the same actions, athletes are often in the public eye and are subsequently held (and should be held) to a higher standard. Many athletes receive athletic scholarships — a privilege allowing them to go to college for lower monetary cost than the average student.

Further, upon entering Iowa State, all students agree to participate as responsible citizens of the campus community. Under the current mission statement of the university, all students work “to be productive and responsible citizens of the world” — a trait not exemplified by these athletes.

The actions of athletes directly reflect on the integrity of Iowa State. I hope that these matters will be handled swiftly and in a way respectful to both the average student and the university.

Kelly Wilhelms

Graduate Student

Toxicology