In a collaborative effort to prioritize safety on campus, a group of student leaders and administrators explored potential safety concerns, focusing on nighttime lighting. The initiative, which took place after sundown on November 9, brought together representatives from various student organizations, including The Stute, the Gear and Triangle Society, and the Student Government Association (SGA), alongside critical administrators such as the Dean of Students, Environmental Health and Safety officials, Facilities and Campus Operations personnel, and members of the Stevens Police Department.
The journey commenced in the Babbio Atrium, where the group examined the lighting systems, identifying areas for improvement to suit the space’s functionality better. Venturing beyond the indoor confines, the group navigated through critical areas of campus, including McLean, Edwin A. Stevens Hall, and Carnegie Laboratory, before reaching Hudson Street. Along the way, student leaders raised concerns about insufficient lighting in specific locations, prompting the administration to take note.
Passing by the River Terrace dormitories, the ABS Engineering Center, and Nichols Laboratory, the group examined potential issues related to landscaping and space utilization that might impact lighting. They proceeded by the path along the athletic field before discussing the lighting of the Eighth Street Parking Lot. The exploration continued down Castle Point Terrace, towards the North Building, and concluded with a stroll through the upper campus, stopping at Castle Point Hall, Wittpenn Walk, and Davis.
Throughout the nocturnal expedition, students identified areas of potential concern stemming from inadequate or misdirected lighting. Administrators, in turn, contributed insights and examples, fostering a dynamic dialogue on plausible solutions and the appropriate channels for reporting concerns, such as malfunctioning timers or burnt-out light bulbs. The primary objective of the evening, however, was not only to discuss these issues but to experience the campus at night and shed light on concerns invisible during typical business hours.
Despite the acknowledged issues across the campus, Facilities and other administrative departments are committed to maintaining an open communication channel with students rather than solely identifying deficiencies. The collaborative walkthrough highlighted areas for potential improvement and established student representatives as conduits for ongoing communication with faculty.
In acknowledging the imperfections discovered during the walkthrough, Facilities expressed confidence in their ability to address and resolve the identified issues. They emphasized a forward-looking approach, admitting that new challenges may emerge as time passes. The overarching emphasis remains on growth and continuous improvement to ensure that the Stevens campus remains a haven for students to live and learn.
As the findings are processed and the campus sees improvements, the collaborative effort between students and administration underscores a shared commitment to safety and well-being at Stevens Institute of Technology. The nighttime exploration is a testament to the university’s dedication to proactive measures, ensuring that the campus is secure for all, regardless of location or time of day.
