Vernon L. Snoeyink，professor of the University of Illinois, Academician of the American Academy of Engineering, delivered a speech to more than 70 freshmen of SOE on October 31. Vice Secretary of SOE Committee of the CPC Liu Jianguo presided over the meeting.

Prof. Snoeyink introduced the problems of drinking water in the U.S. and asked participants to discuss two questions. First, since the U.S. water system has been used for many years and is supplying direct drinking water now, is it necessary to continue? Secondly, is it necessary in China to make the tap water drinkable? A lively discussion ensued regarding the two questions.

In conclusion, Prof. Snoeyink introduced some measures for drinking water safety to the freshmen.