What will it take to get a new ventilation system for Ross Hall? We are currently in the middle of our every-semester-system-breakdown. This one is scheduled to last at least two weeks as forms are signed, parts sent for, etc. Meanwhile, the classrooms on the ground and first floors have taken on the atmosphere of gymnasium locker rooms. Doors are propped open with chairs, since there are no windows to open, providing a tiny bit of air and a lot of noise. Professors attempt to talk over the voices, elevator bells, slamming doors and pop machines in the hall until someone finally shuts the door so we can hear. Then, a roomful of students try to fan themselves while taking notes and tests. Either way, it’s not a suitable learning environment for “the best land-grant college” in the country.

It’s no secret that the major commitments of money and attention at ISU are devoted to science and technology, agriculture and sports. But if we’re going to have a history department, an English department and a political science department — even if it’s just so we can call ourselves a “university” — then why not upgrade the facilities for those departments to an adequate level? Ventilation is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Certainly this would not be a high profile project — no ribbon cutting, no ceremony, nothing to do with the stadium, nothing to be renamed — but then there wouldn’t be any protests either.

Cynthia Potter

Senior

History