OUR VIEW: USU agrees ‘Coke is it’

Coca-Cola is helping quench Utah State University’s thirst for funds.

The $7 million contract is allowing for the reconstruction and renovation of major food services on campus. The Hub, The Junction, The Skyroom and the new Quad Side Café are all part of the deal.

Funds generated over a 12-year period will also help boost academic programs and scholarships.

USU previously dealt with multiple companies. But it’s a good thing the administration had foresight enough to settle with one. Coca-Cola is providing a way for the university to accomplish many of its goals, despite hefty budget cuts.

Sure, students won’t see Pepsi products on campus, unless they visit The Quick Stop. Pepsi wasn’t willing to strike as good a deal. But that’s a small sacrifice to make for $7 million.

The contract money is manifesting itself in tangible ways students will appreciate.

One department in particular reaping the benefits of the Coca-Cola deal is Athletics.

Because of the agreement, new scoreboards were placed at the soccer field and the softball field.

A large video scoreboard, or Jumbotron, was put in the Spectrum.

This is one of the best uses of the money, because it will affect anyone who visits any of the venues.

These new scoreboards not only bring USU more up to date with technology, but they will provide a more professional atmosphere for sporting events.

When watching the men’s basketball team take on the opposing teams, it will feel like attending a Jazz game rather than a game of pick-up church ball.

Come Big West tournament time, the Spectrum may open up to show the games on the new scoreboard for those students who can’t afford to travel to California.

Even though everything in sight is now labeled “Coca-Cola,” the benefits are endless, so drink up.