tell me what you think: In a world, which revolves around the value of money, one must ask if there is a boundary that money cannot exceed. Certainly, if we take into consideration that we live in a secular society, there exists a separation of church and state; two spheres of influence that should not mix. However, is there a rule that states that money should not influence academia, beyond its usage for strictly funding? This is most certainly the case also, where public universities as well as private institutions are cutting back on expenses and cutting jobs, yet at some of the most competitive and highly recognized Division I (FBS) football programs, there is an "invisible hand" that seems to make those programs run smoothly despite the economic climate. On January 19, 2011 the University of Connecticut received a letter from one of its football program's most prestigious benefactors who, in a painstakingly written five page letter, demanded their estimated $3 million dollar donation be returned. The reason: because the donor, Robert G. Burton, felt slighted that the University hired a new football coach, without his input. There is now an upheaval within collegiate football, as to the rights a donor has within the institution they give money to, and the responsibilities the institution has to that respective donor. However the situation at the University of Connecticut is not as black and white, there are many shades of grey. For an FBS program to be competitive, the program must have a budget in excess of millions of dollars. The costs incurred with making a program a contender is covered in part by the university budget, but for programs that have had a storied history of winning, those costs are covered primarily by the wealthy benefactors that want to see the program be successful. Mr. Burton must understand that the University of Connecticut makes decisions that are in the best interest of its institution. Any donor or benefactor that gives money to an institution or fund, do so with the knowledge and confidence that those funds will be appropriated responsibly. However, whereas the casual observer may find Mr. Burton's demand to have his donation returned as egregious and selfish, the college sports enthusiast understands the dynamic between donors and athletic departments. In short, if it were not for Mr. Burton's contributions, the University of Connecticut football program would be relegated to Division II (FCS) contention. His contributions in excess of $7 million dollars have afforded the program to have arguably the best facilities in college football as well as a budget that allows its coaching staff more flexibility within the program. I recognize that students and fans of the University of Connecticut are calling for UConn to cut ties with Robert Burton. Unlike Alabama, which has dozens of Robert Burtons, the University of Connecticut does not have that luxury. UConn is therefore in no position to lose a millionaire benefactor at the cost of a bruised ego. There is a cost for winning after all.
