I love Ohio University and Athens. I’ve had the privilege of leadership in two school organizations and involvement in honors programs; I’ve seen the talent and dedication of Ohio University’s students displayed in every corner of Athens and beyond. I fully expect that in my old age, I will fondly daydream of the one-of-a-kind experiences I’ve shared with my fellow Bobcats and Athenians. But in my three years at OU, I have also had to defend some of my professors from being laid off due to budget cuts. I have watched friends sign student loans that will follow them to the grave. While talking with potential students and their families, I’ve had to try explaining why some of our facilities are crumbling.
Meanwhile, some administration officials seem to be of the opinion that the most pressing financial priority of the school should be coaches’ salaries. The use of the university’s budget by these “top administration” members is a glaring insult to the faculty, staff and student body of OU.
I know I am not the only one to say this, but it seems that terms like “respect” and “academic quality” are not featured in the top administration’s vocabulary. So, let me write in terms that are. Years down the road, I expect a phone call on behalf of the OU administration asking me, as an alumni, to give generously to my alma mater. It’s at that time I will remember how well you handled money, and my financial generosity will follow accordingly: click.
Kathleen Burns is a junior studying biology and geography.
