BenLadner-com
BenLadner.com was an independent student-run website and online publication at American University in Washington, D.C. Founded in 2001, the website covered campus news, student life, and university affairs and frequently criticized the administration of university president Benjamin Ladner.
The website became known for its role in several controversies involving free speech, intellectual property, and the authority of university administrators. During the controversy surrounding Ladner's removal as president in 2005, the website served as one of several outlets reporting on developments affecting the university.
History
BenLadner.com was established in December 2001 after unsuccessful efforts to launch a print publication. Initially focused on criticism of the administration of American University president Benjamin Mance Ladner, the site gradually expanded into a broader source of campus news, commentary, and student life.
Editors and contributors described the publication as a "virtual town square" for the university community. According to contemporary accounts, faculty members, administrators, and students were regular readers, and the website attracted approximately 400 daily visits from members of the American University community.
Tipper Gore Recording Controversy
In April 2002, the website became involved in a dispute concerning the videotaping of a speech delivered on campus by Tipper Gore. After a student associated with the website recorded the speech for journalistic purposes, university officials intervened and confiscated the tape. Disciplinary charges were subsequently brought, including allegations involving the theft of intellectual property.
The incident attracted outside attention and criticism. Greg Lukianoff of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education argued that American University had misapplied copyright law and stated that questions of copyright would ordinarily be matters for the copyright holder rather than university disciplinary authorities.
The controversy generated debate concerning intellectual property, student journalism, and freedom of expression on college campuses.
Domain Name Dispute
In 2004, Ladner initiated proceedings before the National Arbitration Forum seeking control of the BenLadner.com domain name. University officials argued that students, parents, and others might mistakenly believe that the website represented the official views of the university president.
Ladner contended that the use of his name diverted internet traffic and caused confusion. The website maintained that it was independent and included a disclaimer stating that it was neither supported nor endorsed by Ladner.
The dispute attracted attention within the university community and raised questions regarding internet domain names, personal trademarks, and free expression. Under rules established by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the burden rested on Ladner to demonstrate both trademark rights in his name and bad-faith use of the domain.
Coverage of the Ladner Scandal
Beginning in 2005, BenLadner.com covered the growing controversy surrounding Benjamin Mance Ladner's compensation and expense practices. The website became one of several outlets reporting on developments involving the university administration, board of trustees, faculty, and student government.
According to a later investigation by Washingtonian magazine, Ladner's presidency was characterized by rapid institutional growth but was ultimately overshadowed by allegations concerning excessive compensation and personal expenditures charged to the university. The controversy led to votes of no confidence by faculty and students, federal investigations, and Ladner's removal from office.
The publication of details concerning the controversy increased interest in the website and solidified its role as a source of information and commentary during one of the most turbulent periods in the history of American University.
Editorial Perspective
BenLadner.com frequently criticized university policies and the administration of Benjamin Ladner. Contributors emphasized independent journalism and sought to provide an alternative voice within the university community.
Over time, the website expanded beyond criticism of the administration and published articles relating to student life, campus events, and issues affecting higher education.
Legacy
BenLadner.com represented an early example of independent online campus journalism. Its involvement in disputes concerning intellectual property, domain names, and university governance illustrated the growing influence of internet-based media in university life during the early twenty-first century.
References
- "Student cited with theft for taping Gore," Southern Poverty Law Center, August 1, 2002.
- Kevan Duve, "AU president fights Web site," The Eagle, September 20, 2004.
- Harry Jaffe, "Ben Ladner's Years of Living Lavishly," Washingtonian, April 1, 2006.