Officials, students address campus safety concerns

“This forum is all about safety,” said Laura Moriarty, acting associate vice provost for academic affairs.

The Commons Theater saw a nearly full house as students, staff and faculty gathered Wednesday night to discuss safety issues at the student safety forum.

What made this particular night unique was the diverse group of speakers available to answer students’ concerns. They also asked questions of the students in attendance.

Reuban B. Rodriguez, associate vice provost and dean of student affairs, and Henry G. Rhone, vice provost for student affairs, were present, as well as representatives from Technology Services and University Police.

Daphne Rankin, service-learning coordinator for the Department of Sociology, said this marked the first forum of its kind at VCU.

Rankin said members selected last fall by Student Affairs and Enrollment Services to specifically work for a safer VCU made the forum possible. Other organizations working toward student safety are the Campus Watch Initiative and a university safety committee.

Robert Smith III, chief of staff of the Student Government Association, said bringing the various VCU officials together in one area with students was a move that should be continued in the future.

“It allowed students to engage the school’s policy- and decision-makers on a subject that affects them all,” he said. “Students have a right to know what measures are being taken to provide for their general welfare, and, in addition, ought to be able to give input.”

Speakers sought to combat the notion that creating accounts with Web sites such as Facebook.com or MySpace.com have no dangerous consequences. Instead of simply stating facts, however, speakers showed students how to limit the amount of personal information displayed on their profiles. Some in attendance were surprised to learn the dangers of posting inappropriate images of themselves not only involved enticing predators, but also blacklisting them with potential employers looking for responsible students.

Questions regarding the Campus Security Escort Service were also addressed. The service, which previously would drive students as far west as Boulevard, now only extends to North Lombardy Street. Complaints were also issued about the time it takes for the escort to arrive.

SGA President Eddie O’Leary told students plans were in effect to look at the current state of the escort service as early as next semester.

Several students brought up feeling wary of dealing with University Police or officials for safety issues. Students do, however, have the option to speak with a variety of sources who don’t fit the mold of authority figure, including SGA members, resident assistants and campus security guards, if they ever have safety related questions.

Still, several speakers stressed the importance of contacting the police.

“Any time you feel you’re in danger, go to the police,” Moriarty said.

Smith said he felt the night was a success.

“The event itself was an important step in engaging the students of VCU,” he said. “Allowing participation and feedback is crucial in achieving the task of campus security.”

When Rankin asked whether or not those in attendance appreciated the new campus forum format, students answered with a resounding “yes.”