For the past 30 years, I've had the privilege to be associatedwith The University of Memphis, both as a student and member of thestaff. During this time, I've served four presidents, and Iconsider President Raines to be one of the best The University hasever had.
In a short time, Raines has been extremely active and efficient,quickly grasping the problems facing this institution. She hasaggressively fought to find funding to reduce The University's $115million deferred maintenance backlog. Although The University hassuffered through two budget cuts, Raines has found funding tocomplete more than 200 projects at a total cost of $9.5 millionsince June 2002. Even now, there are more than 100 projectsunderway at a total cost of over $5 million.
I've always believed The Daily Helmsman is a fine part of TheUniversity, providing a place for aspiring journalists to learn thetrade in a responsible manner. But on March 24, I was deeplyoffended by the sophomoric and immature commentary regardingRaines.
Free speech and commentaries, such as those found in The DailyHelmsman, are two things that make this country great. However,responsibility -- not insubstantial statements -- should beconsidered.
Jim Hellums
Assistant Vice President
Physical Plant
