Jischke's freshman year was probably better than yours

It has been one year since Purdue president Martin Jischke took office and naturally it is now a time to reflect on what was good, what was bad and what was downright ugly. It's easy to be critical when living in hindsight; however, offering a critique after his freshman year is appropriate, if not necessary.

• The good

Jischke laid the groundwork for what should be some interesting and exciting next few years. His impact was almost immediate, as he added sexual orientation to the non-discrimination policy shortly after he took over as Purdue's 10th president. He hired a provost and senior vice president for advancement planning as well as began work on the strategic plan. Reinforcing his reputation as a world-class fundraiser, Jischke and his administration managed to raise $170 million — almost double the $90 million raised by Purdue administrators last year. His follow up on things, such as the sweatshop issue that was dropped in his lap, has been good. He really can be a "people president" also (anyone in this office will attest how quickly the busy president returns phone calls).

• The bad

A 7.5 percent increase in our tuition? Sure the University faced a tighter budget this year. Sure the costs of utilities and medical insurance for employees have gone up. Sure Purdue needs to be able to attract and retain the highest caliber of educators. But 7.5 percent is a bit extreme. That ups the non-resident fees by nearly $1,000. That's entirely too much to have to face all at once.

• The ugly

This is a little unfair because Jischke had nothing to Purdue the infamous April Fool's Day revelries that occurred following the NBAA championship game. As everyone has said all along it was a few individuals who caused the ugliness. However' the administration did play a part in disciplining those involved. Were they too harsh? That's a tough call to make considering some of the students probably got off with less than a spanking. After seeing some of the day-after destruction, perhaps some of the expulsions were warranted. But should they be the focus of Jischke or his first year? However, in April, Purdue almost saw its second disturbance after plans to fence the fountains were announced. Despite the triviality of the supposed controversy, it received more attention than all of the aforementioned accomplishments, positive or negative. A lot of people were angered for Jischke and/or his administration not sticking up for the fountain. He and his staff, however, were at least willing to listen and compromise and eventually a solution was offered.

These are a few of the events that helped shape Jischke's freshman year, which was largely more positive than negative.

All things considered, Jischke grades out with a B+ for his first full year as our University's conductor. We look forward to see how the president follows up when he becomes a sophomore.

Jischke's freshman year was probably better than yours

Friends will always be remembered

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Cheating should not be tolerated

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