Should FSU be a Closed Campus?
posted by Daysia Wood | October 24, 2022 | In OpinionFayetteville State University is a bustling urban campus connected to the community by several streets leading from downtown Fayetteville to the heavily populated inner-city area nearest to Fort Bragg. Constant traffic via bus routes, carpooling, residential and commuter students leads to a myriad of faces on campus.
So many in fact, that there is a high possibility that someone unaffiliated with the university can mingle within the crowd and no one would know. However, campus security and the unspoken policy of ‘if you see something, say something’ helps to keep our campus safe from strange persons.
But some still ask: should FSU be less of an open campus?
While it isn’t an ultimate fail-safe, FSU offers a number of places for students to find entertainment and relief from the everyday struggles of college life. Namely, Seabrook Park and Bronco Plaza, which are within walking distance of the campus. Even students who do not have a vehicle or permission to bring their vehicle to campus are able to enjoy these community resources and broaden their horizons with new experiences.
The Zipcars available to rent on campus allow those with licenses to explore Fayetteville and the surrounding area. Students can engage in off-campus activities that hopefully leave them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated when returning to campus.
Having a closed campus would make interactions with the community more difficult. While the safety of the students is the top priority for campus security, restricting students’ access to leisure and recreational activities off-campus would create a stagnant environment opposite of what a Bronco would thrive in.
There is always the concern that someone could wander on campus and attempt to harm students. There is simple cure for this issue but there are measures that can be taken to alleviate the risks involved.
The RAVE (Emergency Notifications) app can be used for emergency situations and to alert officials if there is an incident happening on campus. Anyone on campus can also call 911 or Department of Police and Public Safety at (910) 672-1911. This service is available 24/7 for students and faculty in dire need of support.
There is a way for all of us to contribute to our campus’ safety and continued prosperity but in times of uncertainty, building walls will not keep danger out; it will only change its shape and invite it to return in ways unbeknownst to us. The best way to maintain safety and fun is to have a balance between vigilance and lenience.
Photo by Keyona Smith
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