This year’s Veishea celebration was wonderfully planned and executed by the student leadership. I spent much time on Welch Avenue with friends and colleagues both Friday and Saturday of the celebration. Two thoughts ran through my mind.

First, I thought that the festivities were going quite well, and everything was very well planned.

Second, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy as I walked down Welch Avenue and up through the greek district. On literally every lawn, and in every landing and on every balcony of every apartment, there were parties with lots of people. I remember thinking in the back of my mind, “I hope there isn’t any trouble tonight.”

As an ardent supporter of Iowa State and of Veishea and its traditions, I do believe that President Geoffroy made the correct decision by suspending Veishea. How many times does this lesson need to be taught?

How much vandalism and destruction does it take to send this message? This year Veishea was very capably managed by excellent student leadership.

Yet, we had more riots. We all need to take one step back, and take a long hard look at the causes of this, and whether (or not) Veishea is worth resuming in a few years. I think it is.

Ryan Sheeler

Graduate Student

Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies