Ball State is known for its dedication to sustainability, immersive learning, and education programs. However, there has been little transparency or faculty representation within operations of the university, neither of which are becoming of a public institution.

The lack of transparency of Ferguson’s departure was so apparent that the Board narrowly avoided a vote of no confidence by the Faculty Council. This continues into the Board’s decision to close the presidential search and ratify the Koch/Schnatter grant agreement without consulting any party outside of the Board. Even the faculty perceive impropriety that the public has not been allowed to address.

It is the Board of Trustee’s responsibility to weigh the sentiments of all parties invested in the outcomes of decisions made by the board, and thus far silence has been the norm. To spend our money and disallow our speech is education without representation. For these reasons, we are demanding that the Board create a time and policy for public comment at all public board meetings and to put a hold on the Koch/Schnatter grant agreement until a committee of students and faculty can review it properly.