On Friday, David Letterman, arguably Ball State's most prominent alumnus, makes an appearance here at Ball State. Thousands will gather to see the late night talk icon commemorate the latest building to open on campus. (You know, the one with his name on it?)
This got me to thinking about names in general. So far, Ball State has kept fairly solid to the tradition of naming buildings and landmarks on campus after actual people of significance in the establishment's history. But what if we went the ways of corporate America?
Sure, Letterman probably donated a hefty amount to get his name on the shiny new $21 million dollar communications and media building. But, given the opportunity, would say, Capitol One for instance, pay more?
Don't act shocked. Naming things after the highest bidder isn't anything new.
In New Jersey, it seems to be all the rage. The NBA team plays in the Continental Airlines Arena. The NHL team plays in the Prudential Center. And New Jersey also boasts a world-famous landmark that dwarfs Big Ben as the world's largest timepiece: Colgate Clock.
Down in Tampa, Fla., the NHL hockey team played in the "Thunder Dome" for years. It was appropriate, considering the team was the Tampa Bay Lightning. Then they renovated the place and named it the Ice Palace. But that was only temporary, until the St. Pete Times newspaper lent its name to the establishment (for a nominal fee, of course.) Now they play in the St. Pete Times Forum.
Also in Tampa, the new Buccaneers stadium was dubbed "Raymond James Stadium," after a financial investment group. Tell me, please, what an investment group has to do with sports, other than ridiculous sums of cash?
I have to admit, however, Raymond James Stadium is a very nice facility. Aside from the name, the cash invested in the structure was clearly well-invested.
So, what if Ball State jumped on this corporate-themed bandwagon? Who would be the first, given the opportunity, to lend a name to a Ball State landmark or building? More importantly, would the financial benefits outweigh the potential negative reaction from patrons of the university?
Would you eat in the Microsoft Atrium? How about exercise in the Nike Gymnasium? Enjoy that lift to class on the Exxon Shuttle Bus! And of course, Shafer Tower would definitely look snazzy with a big Pepsi logo slapped on there, wouldn't it?
At what point do we decide it's worth it to stop naming things for sentiment's sake and start naming things for financial gain?
No, there aren't rumors that Ball State is thinking of going down this road. And by no means am I trying to start one. But it's an interesting idea to entertain.
Write to Sean at spokey@bsu.edu
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