Wildermuth decision will be discussed today

A decision could come today about recommending a name change for the Ora L. Wildermuth Intramural Center, said Terry Clapacs, head of the All University Committee on Names.

Clapacs, who is also vice president and chief administration officer for IU, said the decision could come if committee members decide they don’t need more time to do research and evaluation.

The building – named after a president of the board of trustees who was a known segregationist – came under fire in April 2007 when Indiana Daily Student columnist Andrew Shaffer brought to light letters between Ora L. Wildermuth and former IU President Herman B Wells, as well as former IU comptroller Ward G. Biddle.

In the letters, Wildermuth expressed strong segregationist views.

Clapacs said he’s concerned that once a building is renamed, it will set a precedent to politicize the naming and renaming of other IU buildings.

Clapacs said it’s difficult to judge what was written 50 years ago against today’s standards, so committee members need time to consider the change.

In an Oct. 8 interview, Clapacs said the decision would come within two weeks, which was last Wednesday. On Wednesday, Clapacs said University officials would need at least until today to discuss the name change further.