The marriage of corporations to universities is becoming a common sight across the country. Iowa State is no exception. The question on the minds of many faculty and students is: How far will privatization go?

This subject will be discussed at a winter faculty retreat being sponsored by the ISU Bioethics Program at the Hotel Fort Des Moines on Jan. 7-8, 1997.

“The McDonaldization of the university: Has the private sector become the hub of research,” is the program title for the retreat which will focus on helping ISU faculty gain a better understanding of the ethical principles relevant to university-business relations.

Gary Comstock, an associate professor of philosophy, will coordinate the events at the retreat, which will include a report from ISU President Martin Jischke on the direction of ISU.

“One of the hottest issues this fall is the increasing close ties between the university and private industry. The issue surfaced this summer when the administration considered a proposal to put a McDonald’s in the Hub,” Comstock said.

Jischke said he wanted to put his thoughts on paper prior to commenting on his upcoming presentation. “I’m looking forward to sharing my views on this matter, but I have not put my remarks together.”

The second day of the retreat will feature a panel of two speakers who feel differently on the issue of corporations at ISU. Colin Scanes, associate dean for the College of Agriculture, will face Tony Smith, a professor of philosophy who “recently published an article in The Drummer that was particularly critical of Iowa State,” Comstock said.

“We’re hoping that the retreat will engender a lively discussion about the topic. Admittedly, we hope the faculty who attend will come away with a deeper understanding of the issue,” he said.

The Bioethics Program can accommodate 35 faculty members. If more than 35 apply, he said, the program will make decisions with an eye on achieving balance from members of the various colleges and departments.

The deadline for applications is Friday, Dec. 6. To apply, faculty should stop at 402 Catt Hall or contact Comstock.