The University of Minnesota has a problem that cannot be overlooked any longer. Around this time last year, the University of Minnesota Board of Regents met to discuss the changing of many building names on campus (including the Coffman Memorial Union) as these individuals represented a time of discrimination and oppression on campus. There ended up being no immediate action but it was said that this issue could be looked at in the future. Over the last few weeks it has become increasingly apparent that some changes need to be made on campus. This includes making sure the individuals that the University are honoring, are individuals that all students can be proud of. 

Sadly, the most recognizable building on campus, the Student Union, is currently named after Lotus Coffman. Lotus Coffman was the President of the University from 1920-1938 and during this time he instituted many discriminatory policies towards African American and Jewish students. Lotus was also greatly opposed to student protests and cared little for student opinions. This is not the type of individual who our great University should be honoring.

This is why I suggest that we rename the Student Union after a more respectful and successful University of Minnesota alumni, Alan Page. 

Alan Page graduated from the Minnesota Law School in 1978. Page was appointed Special Assistant Attorney General in 1985, and later promoted to Assistant Attorney General. In 1992 Alan Page become the first African-American to be appointed to the Minnesota Supreme Court. He was re-elected three times and also has the record for most votes for a judge in Minnesota history. Page famously said, "To me the law is about solving problems and helping people."

Alan Page greatly values education and has throughout his entire life. This passion for learning led him and his wife to establish the Page Education Fund. This organization is focused on providing financial and mentoring assistance to students, in exchange these students volunteer in their communities. The Page Education Fund has helped over 6,000 students and in turn these students have volunteered over 420,000 hours. 

Alan Page is also known for being an incredible athlete. Page is considered one of the greatest players in NFL history and was part of the Vikings' dominate defenses in 70s and 80s.

Major Accomplishments Include:

• Graduate of the Minnesota Law School
•  Judge in the Minnesota Supreme Court
• Continued effort to improve education for children of Minnesota
• Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient
• Published Author
• NFL Hall of Fame
• NFL 100th Anniversary Team
• NFL MVP
• NFL Champion
• 9-Time NFL All-Pro
• 2-Time NFL Defensive Player of the Year
• First Active NFL Player to Complete a Marathon 
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Number retired by the Minnesota Vikings
• College Football Hall of Fame
• 2-Time College Football National Champion
• 1-Time Time College Football All American

Page has had and continues to have an incredible impact on Minnesota in the realm of sports, politics and education. I think he would be the perfect person to be the namesake for our student union!