Allison Engel’s March 25 letter to the editor reiterated the Daily’s report that no interest has been shown in Morrill Hall.

However, since that report, PASS (Programs for Academic Skills and Services) has expressed an interest in relocating to Morrill Hall and creating a centralized, comprehensive, high-profile center to encourage and support academic success at ISU.

This center would include Tutoring Services, Supplemental Instruction, the Academic Learning Lab, Disability Resources and the Student Support Services Program, which aids low-income, disabled and first generation college students.

Part of this proposal includes a student lounge and study area, which could certainly be expanded to help meet the needs of commuter students.

Placing PASS at Morrill Hall would be more than a move of convenience for my office. It would be ISU’s opportunity to have a place, a visible symbol of their commitment to the land grant ideal.

Justin S. Morrill believed in making higher education available to all, regardless of race or income level.

Our services are a natural outgrowth of his educational philosophy. We work with students from all majors, freshmen to graduate level, for low or no cost.

The response from President Jischke’s office has been very tentative.

The cost of renovation seems to be the primary obstacle.

However, this is a unique opportunity for ISU to commit more than rhetoric to its common goal of academic excellence and to honor Justin Morrill’s memory in a productive setting that benefits all students.

Amy Rutledge

Graduate Assistant

PASS/Supplemental Instructions