Editor:

I was frustrated and disappointed when I heard that class would be canceled for the Thursday game at the end of October. While I understand the logic of the decision (I’m sure most undergrads are thrilled at the idea of a Halloween pre-funk in the form of Cougar football), I was dismayed to think that our university administration would rather capitulate to poor behavior than continue to set high academic standards.

It would be one thing to let this be the end of it; however, I just received notice that parking permit holders will not be allowed to park in the “reserved” areas after 1 p.m. on game day. It is one thing to give free rein to people who want to go to the game; however, there are other people who keep this university running the remaining 364 days of the year that are inhibited in their work due to this parking policy.

Administrators still have work to do, professional students still have class to attend, and faculty and graduate students still have research to attend to. Forcing permit holders to park off-campus (many of whom live nowhere near a Pullman Transit bus route) is not an acceptable option.

In my opinion, this only further enforces the impression that our athletics program is prioritized over our academic programs. Concessions need to be made for this one game, and it should not fall on the shoulders of the people who uphold the academic integrity of this institution.

I respect the donors and appreciate their support for our team. Perhaps just for one game, they can support what truly makes WSU an excellent institution: our world class education.

Ashley Conway

Teaching Assistant, Animal Sciences