The New American University's new mantra should definitely be "out with the old and in with the new." It may be cliche, but it's the truth. University building projects, reconstruction and renovation can be seen everywhere: on campus, inside the Memorial Union and even on the road (which, in triple digit heat, makes coming to ASU a joy).
But that is the price of progress. As the largest university in the nation, projects to accommodate the growth are expected. But what is to become of Sun Devil Tradition? In some instances, the price of progress is too high, when traditional and well-known ASU monuments are threatened.
The ASU Visitor Information Center on the northwest corner of Rural Road and Apache Boulevard, long known for its unique architecture, has a date with the wrecking ball.
The plot of land where the golden-domed building now stands is slated for the new Barrett Honors College, which will contain classrooms, offices and approximately 1,700 beds.
No concrete plans have been made yet to demolish the center, but considering trends at ASU, it would not be at all shocking if word were given to destroy the building.
The ASU Visitor Information Center started out as a bank, built in 1962, and is topped by a geodesic dome that expands from heat during the day and then shrinks at night. It is truly a novel piece of construction in Tempe and at ASU.
The building does suffer from certain problems that warrant repair, but nevertheless the building is a historical testament to ASU and Sun Devil tradition. It is highly recognizable, and that is more important now than ever.
Many alumni come back to campus, and when I speak with them, usually while working in the MU, most comment that they do not recognize ASU. That is why it is important to preserve certain aspects on campus, so when alumni come home, they have something to come home to. There needs to be a Sun Devil feel to the campus, not just a collection of modern buildings that no one remembers. Tradition is the tie that binds us.
The Visitor Information Center is not a large building, so just by observation, it would not be difficult to construct around it, or somehow incorporate it into current plans.
Now it's clear that the University continues to grow, and some buildings will need to go, but our administration needs to be prudent about which ones are sent to the chopping block. For example, the Social Sciences building is already partially condemned. Why not demolish that building as opposed to more sentimental structures?
Parts of ASU must be preserved for the sake of Sun Devil tradition. Progress will happen to keep up with growth, but we mustn't forget our identity and get swept away in the fray. We must remember that even though this is the "New American University" it also still and will always be Arizona State.
Rick Beitman is a political science and French senior. Questions, comments and rants may be sent to Richard.beitman@asu.edu.
