This isn't really related to PSTV or the communications program, but I thought it was worth noting. It seems Plattsburgh State is considering adding an ROTC program.

According to the Press Republican, it would actually be an affiliate of the ROTC program at UVM on the other side of the lake. Students in the ROTC would be eligible for funding and scholarships at Plattsburgh, but UVM would be running the show.

It seems the notion has caused some controversy on campus. The SA supports bringing an ROTC program to Plattsburgh.

"I truly believe that post-secondary education at public institutions has a role in impacting social change by not just relying on places like West Point and private institutions to bring about officers in our military," said Student Association President Michael Cashman.

However, some members of the faculty are less than thrilled with the idea. They worry an ROTC program would result in a cultural shift at Plattsburgh. Some think welcoming the ROTC would ammount to an endorsement of the military and the war in Iraq. They also point to the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy with homosexuals.

"It seems to me that it would dominate the culture in ways that have not existed here and in ways I would not find overall positive," said Dr. Paul Bardis, assistant professor in elementary education at Plattsburgh State.

Of course, Plattsburgh was basically a military town up until the closure of the Air Force Base about 10 years ago.

Nothing happens at a college without scads of discussion and meetings. Ultimately Plattsburgh State President Dr. John Ettling will have the final say.