Pullman, Wash. — The Linux Users Group at Washington State University have been interviewed by radio and television stations around the Pacific Northwest, and have appeared live on CNN’s morning program on Monday, October 1, 2007. The story has appeared in both Canada and Australia.

The media frenzy centers around a “Nerd Auction”  originally planned by the group, in an effort to challenge the stereotypical image of computer science majors as “computer nerds.” 

The idea grew exponentially, and proceeds will be used to create an endowed scholarship for women in computer science at WSU.  They never expected this much publicity, and they never expected to raise enough money to create an endowment.

Nerds to be auctioned are Ben Waldher, Brandon Williams, Chad Selph, Devin Rider, Haven Hash, Matt Bailey and Matt Oberg.  The seven men will receive complete makeovers by sorority girls. The makeovers will be videotaped and shown at the dinner and auction. The newly fashioned nerds will then be auctioned off to the general public, for homework help, computer help, or a dinner date.

(Left) Ben Ford and Ben Waldher of the Washington State University Linux Users Group (LUG) during a live interview on CNN Monday, October 1, 2007. The club's idea for a "Nerd Auction" made international news.