Purdue University — Built Ford Tough.

Ford Motors made a generous $5 million donation to Purdue that will pay for a new wing for Herrick Laboratories and robotics research. However, this donation raises some interesting points about the relationship between private industry and universities.

Pros — Purdue students will now have access to a new laboratory and expanded robotics. The education that the donation by Ford will provide will help create students with a wider range of knowledge and more hands-on laboratory experience.

Cons — Ford is not just going to throw $5 million at a university and not expect a return on its investment. Sure, part of that investment will come from the better-educated and experienced students. But how much will Ford benefit from research conducted by Purdue students and professors?

With donations such as these, the University must be careful not to cater research goals and needs to those of private industry.

Ford is not the first corporation to provide the University with money or facilities, nor is it likely to be the last. Microsoft and Eli Lily are just two examples of corporations that have generously donated time and money to Purdue.

As it stands, these symbiotic relationships with private industry keep Purdue at the forefront of technology and education, drawing on those who may employ our students in the future. But all good things must come in moderation.

The donation is good and appreciated just so long as Ford's slogan doesn't change to "Ford Trucks — Built Purdue Tough" and the Boilermakers don't play in the Frito Lay/Starbucks Arena.

n Editorial Board: Keith Thomas, Tom McHenry, Melissa Davis and Laura Pelner.