The focus of this week’s meeting was on the vandalism around campus that took place last Tuesday night, which was then noticed on Wednesday morning. The vandalism was the writing of “Trump 2016” and “Bernie 2016” in chalk around campus.
Dr. Tim Pierson, the vice president of Student Affairs, commented that not only was it vandalism, but said it was also a hassle for the maintenance department on campus to remove the problem which took away from other daily maintenance tasks around campus.
Senator Tonisha Pitchford wanted to know if there were any consequences for those students who vandalize campus. Pitchford felt that there were no disciplinary actions put in place for the disturbance to campus.
Senator Mark Barham inquired as to what the avenue is for students to express their first amendment rights of the freedom of speech on Longwood University’s campus.
Pierson added that the designated area on campus for students to exercise their freedom of speech rights is behind the student union.
Barham suggested that there should be a free speech board behind the student union that allows for students to express their feelings about anything.
Pierson added this could lead to students abusing their rights and using the board to write inappropriate comments on it.
Barham replied that just because of the fear that students may abuse the rights doesn’t mean that the board shouldn’t be placed.
Vice President Jacob Harvey brought up the recent installation of the fences around campus and expressed the wish that they had been put up after Spring Weekend to not cause a disruption to the events.
Senator Liz Greenwood mentioned that the fences have eliminated multiple spaces for commuters to park.
Executive Senator Chyanne Trowell brought up that multiple drinking fountains around campus have low water pressure and are dirty.
Senator Morgan Rollins added that she had noticed that several of the fountains contained mold in them and felt this was unacceptable.
David Love, director of Landscaping and Grounds Management, mentioned that the air conditioning will be turned on and the heat turned off on Friday.
The next SGA meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 19 at 3:45 p.m. in the ABC rooms of the Student Union.
