Why doesn’t Bradley have a football team? What’s up with ForeWarn? Why can’t we change our mascot to the Bradley Gargoyles?
These questions and more were addressed at Student Senate’s annual Speak Up event in the Student Center Ballroom last Thursday night.
There were a wide variety of administrators present, including University President Joanne Glasser and her cabinet, the deans of all colleges and the Bradley University Police Department, among others.
“The majority [of questions] were well thought-out,” said Student Body Secretary Kyle Mathers. “I think the administrators answered them fully.”
The questions covered topics such as the transcript policy, BU Secure, race relations, Student Leadership programs, the escort service, improving Heuser Hall, resident hall issues and registration.
“You have not stopped getting [ForeWarn text messages],” said Associate Vice President of Communications Shelley Epstein. “They are used for eminent, immediate danger. If an incident comes up, you will get a ForeWarn text.”
Security was a hot topic regarding the Romeo B. Garrett Cultural Center as well. Students expressed the unfairness they felt at upped security at Garrett Center parties, including the use of “wanding,” a guest list needed 48 hours prior to the event and increased police presence.
“The current policies are put together with student and BUPD input,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Alan Galsky. “As with any policy, it’s open to review, and I will look into it.”
Students also learned about changes arriving on campus.
“If you go to Center Court, you can ask the workers to fry your food in a separate vegan/vegetarian fryer,” said Director of Food Services Ron Gibson.
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs David Glassman said there are new places for small groups to study in the library.
“New tables and chairs will be provided in the downstairs offices soon,” Glassman said.
Sexual health on campus was another hot topic.
“As of spring semester, there will be [free distribution of condoms],” said Galsky.
Athletic Director Michael Cross tackled the issue of our nonexistent football team.
“A lot of challenges go into having a team,” he said, “There are problems with facilities, financial support, coaches and travel. We need to raise the competitive profiles of our current teams.”
Cross also discussed the Braves as our school mascot.
“It would be wise to retain [the name] for our alumni and students,” he said.
Overall, the event satisfied students and the administration.
“I’m very pleased with the turnout,” Glasser said. “It was a terrific event. We are happy students have the ability to interact with the administration. People stayed and were engaged.”
Senior English major Brittany Horton said Speak Up was a great way for students and staff to discuss campus issues.
“I liked how it was open for discussion,” she said. “The emcees did a great job. It was great for students and staff to come together for solutions.”
Students are encouraged to contact the cabinet if they still want to discuss policies. Students can also participate in the General Assembly of the Student Senate 3:30-5 p.m. every Monday at the Garrett Center.
