Iowa State will host one of the world’s largest creative problem-solving competitions in May 2000.

On May 24, more than 7,000 students, accompanied by another 7,000 teachers, parents and others, will converge on campus for the International Destination ImagiNation Tournament, Destination 2000, said Steve Sullivan, manager of ISU News Service.

Sponsored by the Odyssey of the Mind Association, Inc., the tournament will run from May 25-28.

This year’s contest theme is “Food for Thought,” Sullivan said.

“There are many reasons that ISU is perfect for this event,” he said. “First, they need facilities like we have. This includes space to do their problems, lodging and dining services. Secondly, our campus is nicely self-contained.”

Mara Bernson, program coordinator for University Conference Services, said she thinks being able to host the event is incredible.

“The OM Association has been to other top universities, to Disney [World] in Orlando, and they just love coming here,” Bernson said.

The OM Association, Inc., problem solving tournaments also were held at ISU in 1990, 1994 and 1996.

The OM Association pays ISU to use campus facilities, but the cost is dependent upon what is used, Bernson said.

“The university sets something like a rental fee for facilities, and at the end of the event, depending on what was used, cost is determined,” she said.

Bernson said hosting events such as Destination ImagiNation brings countless benefits to ISU.

“Probably the greatest advantage to the university is it exposes 7,000 kids, from kindergarten to college age, to our campus,” she said. “We showcase our facility, and they are influenced.”