To the editor:

Although “Chalmers for President” is an appealing sentiment, naming a University of Kansas building for Mario seems a more attainable idea.

Of course, a side benefit of Chalmers Hall is that another very deserving Chalmers (Larry) might bask in the reflected glory, as both Mario and Larry were the right person at the right time at the right place in the history of KU. I was in KU’s department of biochemistry from 1969 to 1984. Larry Chalmers was chancellor during the turbulent years of 1969 to 1972 and in my opinion, also saved the bacon for KU on more than one occasion. The Chalmers name should not be omitted from the list of former chancellors recognized and honored by a named building. It is, indeed, Chalmers’ time.

And, yes, Mario’s name and his contributions to KU history probably will be remembered longer than the names of any of the chancellors, who, after all, are only mere mortals. Long live Chalmers!

Lou Houston,
Bainbridge Island, Wash.