The Aer Lingus Classic: A Memorable Matchup

## Overview Aer Lingus is Ireland’s national airline, connecting the country to destinations across Europe and North America for nearly 90 years[7]. Based in Dublin, it operates a modern fleet of over 50 aircraft and serves close to 100 destinations, playing a strategic role as a hub for transatlantic travel between Europe and North America[3]. Today, it is a key member of the International Airlines Group (IAG), which also owns British Airways and Iberia[3][4]. ## History Founded on April 15, 1936, Aer Lingus was established with government support and a modest initial capital of £100,000[3][4]. Its first flight, using a six-seat de Havilland DH.84 Dragon, departed Dublin for Bristol on May 27, 1936, marking the beginning of commercial aviation in Ireland[3][4][8]. The airline quickly expanded, adding London to its network later that year and steadily growing its fleet and route map throughout the 20th century[4][8]. A significant milestone came in 1958, when Aer Lingus launched transatlantic services to New York via Shannon, becoming the 17th airline worldwide to operate scheduled North Atlantic flights[2][5]. This move capitalized on Ireland’s geographic position as a natural gateway between Europe and North America. The airline’s long-haul operations were initially operated by its subsidiary, Aerlínte Éireann, using leased Lockheed Super Constellations[2][5]. ## Key Achievements Aer Lingus has consistently punched above its weight, serving over six million passengers annually despite Ireland’s small population[1]. It was a founding member of the Oneworld alliance in 1999 but left in 2007 following its acquisition by IAG[1][4]. The airline has been a pioneer in fleet modernization, transitioning from propeller-driven aircraft to jets (introducing the Boeing 720 in the

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 as the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm, is one of the United States' pioneering land-grant institutions, established under the Morrill Act provisions[1][2]. Located in Story County, Iowa, it began with a 648-acre farm and opened its doors to students in 1869, embracing an inclusive educational philosophy that welcomed both men and women from its first graduating class in 1872[1][3]. The university’s mission centers on creating, sharing, and applying knowledge to improve Iowa and the world, reflecting its roots in practical and liberal education[2][3]. Over time, it evolved from a primarily agricultural college to a comprehensive university known today as Iowa State University of Science and Technology, a name adopted officially in 1959 to reflect its expanded focus on engineering and technology[3]. Key achievements include establishing the nation’s first state veterinary medicine school in 1879, pioneering agricultural and mechanical engineering programs, and significant contributions to scientific innovation, such as the development of the first binary digital computer and involvement in the Manhattan Project during World War II[3][4][9]. The university has also contributed inventions like the round hay baler and Maytag blue cheese, underscoring its blend of agricultural and technological innovation[3]. Currently, Iowa State University is a major research and educational institution with over 31,000 students enrolled and a faculty of nearly 1,850. Its campus spans 1,813 acres and offers more than 300 degree programs across bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels[2]. It hosts a diverse international community from over 100 countries and an alumni network exceeding 273,000 worldwide[2]. Notable aspects of Iowa State include its progressive land-grant mission emphasizing accessibility, practical education, and community outreach through cooperative extension programs, making it a unique blend of tradition and innovation in business and technology education[1][3][4].

Kansas State University (K-State) is a public land-grant research university established in 1863 as the first operational land-grant college under the Morrill Act, making it the first public higher education institution in Kansas. Its main campus is located in Manhattan, Kansas, with additional campuses in Salina and Olathe, each specializing in unique academic and research areas such as aerospace, technology, bioenergy, animal health, and food safety[1][2][4][6]. K-State is classified as an R1 doctoral university, indicating very high research activity. It offers over 250 academic programs across nine colleges, including Agriculture, Architecture, Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering, Veterinary Medicine, and Leadership Studies. The university provides a comprehensive range of degrees, including 65 master's and 45 doctoral programs, emphasizing applied learning, leadership development, and industry partnerships[2][3][9]. The university is known for its strong commitment to research and innovation, with faculty conducting nationally recognized research that is integrated into the student learning experience. The Olathe campus notably fosters collaboration between students, researchers, and companies, particularly in biosciences and technology sectors[3]. K-State also offers extensive online programs, expanding access to its educational resources. With a student body of over 21,000 and nearly 4,000 full-time faculty and staff, K-State prides itself on a connected community of difference-makers focused on innovation, creativity, and societal impact. It embraces its heritage as a land-grant institution dedicated to teaching, research, and service. Traditions like the Wildcat mascot and the fight song "Wildcat Victory" enrich campus culture, while the university also participates in the Big 12 athletic conference[4][7]. Kansas State University remains a significant player in business and technology education, combining historical legacy with forward-looking research and community engagement to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly evolving world[1][2][3].