Eskew: Earnest and progressive

I’m not a particularly big fan of oligarchic decision-making bodies. I am especially not a fan of these bodies if the majority of members are appointed by Gov. Mitch Daniels. Such is the structure of IU’s board of trustees. But this election is the IU alumni’s annual stab at democracy: we can vote for one new trustee. And my vote is for one guy Mitch Daniels would never appoint: the earnest progressive Phil N. Eskew III. \nOf the six trustee-hopefuls invited to a round table discussion with the IDS Editorial Board, Mr. Eskew was the only attendee. Mr. Eskew demonstrated his dedication to students by coming to the round table and responding to our 90 minutes of questioning. \nEskew is opposed to the board of trustees’ decision to outsource IU’s bookstores and the motor pool. Outsourcing is a major concern for Eskew, and he believes it is better to examine carefully the causes and possible solutions for an inefficient service before outsourcing it. \nHe also has plans to make IU a more environmentally friendly campus if elected. Though many people believe environmental initiatives are costly and therefore undesirable, Eskew believes if people are exposed to the facts, they will be more open to “green” practices. \nEskew lives, works and teaches in Bloomington. He is motivated to run for election in order to improve the University, not to enhance his resume. But I fear his ideas, so very contrary to those of current trustees, will fall on deaf ears.