Ball State not removing Papa John founder’s name from campus
by: Elizabeth Choi
Posted: / Updated:
MUNCIE, Ind. (WISH) — Ball State University announced on Friday that it would not be removing the name of one of their most well-known alumni from campus.
Rick Hall, a member of the Ball State Board of Trustees, said the university would keep Papa John’s founder John Schnatter’s name on the John H. Schnatter Institute for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise in the wake of Schnatter’s resignation from Papa John’s, after he reportedly used a derogatory word in a conference call earlier this year.
“I think he should be known, maybe not full-blown racist, but in 2018, he should be outed for saying that,” said Ball State senior Zach Shimer.
Back in 2016, Schnatter and the Charles Koch Foundation partnered to fund the institute with a $3.25 million grant.
“I know he’s a big donor. He’s done a lot for Ball State. But, I think his name should be removed from the program,” said Shimer.
Gavin Humfleet, a junior at Ball State, disagreed: “I believe that all mistakes can be forgiven, and he can get a second chance.”
Ball State officials issued the following statement Friday morning:
To the Ball State Community:
Ball State alumnus, John Schnatter, has been the subject of media reports regarding his comments in a private meeting in May. As a result, the Board of Trustees has been asked whether his name will be removed from the John H. Schnatter Institute for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise.
Higher education plays a unique role in the support of free speech and the exchange of ideas that lead to better understanding. In that pursuit, it does not mandate perfection. The language used by John was insensitive and painful to others, making a review of context appropriate.
To such end, we have the following understanding of John’s comments. They were made in a private meeting with consultants, from which he was seeking advice as to how to communicate in a way that would be less offensive to others. In the course of the conversation, he recited his understanding of another’s use of the “N word”. He did so not in a derogatory manner seeking to demean any individuals or groups; rather it was used as an example of improper conduct.
John has acknowledged, notwithstanding his intentions, that his use of the word was inappropriate. His response was to promptly issue an apology and unequivocally denounce racism. He has reaffirmed those views to us personally, and such sentiment is consistent with Ball State’s values.
In our experience with John, he has never expressed racist views. He has demonstrated himself to be an individual who is very appreciative of his fortunate situation and cares deeply about creating an environment in which all enterprising individuals have the opportunity to succeed. With such perspective, John has generously shared his blessings through his contributions to universities and other philanthropic activities.
Based on our current understanding of what transpired, John’s response to the current situation, and our experience with him, the Board will continue our support of the John H. Schnatter Institute for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise.
While we recognize that some will disagree with our position on this particular matter, we hope all will share in the Board’s unwavering commitment to a diverse and welcoming campus. Through our continued work together, Ball State can advance a sense of community that is so essential to the creation of a stronger Indiana and a healthier society.
