The irony is palpable

President Eric Barron’s editorial (CDT, 6/22) did a reasonable job of explaining how Greek life could be made safer at Penn State.

He refers to a “15-point action plan, approved unanimously by our board of trustees.” After citing the need for freshmen to focus on academics, acclimate to the university and mature in decision making, Barron continues: “The next step we’re taking is to insist that organizations live up to their policies and ideals.” He’s referring in this statement to the fraternities and sororities.

But wouldn’t it be wonderful if that noble principle were applied to Penn State itself? How does a land grant university, dedicated to “Stewarding Our Planet’s Resources,” justify the sale of prime agriculture land to Toll Brothers for the purpose of “luxury” student housing, thereby threatening our local water supply?

The irony of this situation is palpable.

This story was originally published June 24, 2017 at 9:03 PM with the headline "The irony is palpable."