Looking for recommendations for Linux laptop

[Lee Reynolds]

I have a faculty member here who is looking for a laptop to run Linux.  
Unfortunately I'm not the best person to make a recommendation on what 
to buy since I don't run Linux on any laptops.  I have set it up before 
for our customers and even got things like sound, full X support, and 
wireless working (sometimes).  What I lack is the ability to say "buy 
this" and be confident that my recommendation will have minimal problems.

Here is her description of what she wants: "I am looking for a minimal 
laptop.  The purpose of the purchase is to have a machine that I can 
take into class and demonstrate LINUX commands, utilities, etc as well 
as development of C and C++ programs.  Quite honestly, I would like to 
spend as little as possible."

It should be able to connect to our wireless network and be fairly 
capable, but other than that there are not any special considerations.

If anyone has any recommendations I'd appreciate it.

Thanks,

Lee