Dr J's Message for April 5-12, 2009
Message from the Vice President for Student Life, April 4, 2009
Spring is here! That means warmer weather, sunshine, and lots of activities and programs. I'm told I can look forward to tulips on the Oval, baby ducks on Mirror Lake, exchanging boots for sandals and flip-flops. And, it's that time of year for the vice president for student life's annual message about responsible partying and crime prevention! Some messages are simply so important they are worth repeating every year.
You may be wondering if the rules about house parties have changed since I became vice president for student life. The answer is NO. The Office of the Vice President for Student Life continues to maintain the philosophy that parties are fine-as long as they are under control. Ohio State students have a very good record of responsible party behavior over the past few years. Let's keep it going. By all means, get together with your friends and barbecue, play cornhole and other games, listen to music and dance. Enjoy being with old friends, make new friends, and maybe even meet someone special. If you're 21 or older and choose to drink alcohol responsibly and legally, that's OK too.
But, know that the police will enforce the laws, including those prohibiting underage drinking, open containers, and very loud music. And the university will enforce the Code of Student Conduct, which means that if you participate in behavior that is a danger to people or property or if you host a party that gets out of control, then the sanctions will be immediate and serious--up to and including suspension from the university. You can find lots of helpful information here http://www.partysmart.osu.edu
Warm weather also can lead to spikes in crime, as people are more apt to leave doors and windows open. Police are working diligently to prevent crimes and to find the perpetrators of several armed robberies in the campus area. You can help them and protect yourself, too. First and most important: LOCK YOUR DOORS AND WINDOWS. I cannot emphasize this enough. Police patrols, street lighting and other safety devices are important, but not nearly as vital as simply locking your doors and windows. If each roommate does not have a key, get copies made now. Do not leave the door unlocked for guests or late-arriving roommates.
The other thing you can do to reduce crime is get to know your neighbors and look out for each other. Call the police and report suspicious behavior. Leave your porch light on. Report crimes and follow through and file charges. Did you know that property crimes (such as thefts from cars) cannot be prosecuted if the victim does not file charges?
The University District is not a high crime area. It would be safer if each resident made it less appealing to criminals by locking up, looking out, and following through.
I hope you had a good time over spring break, and we will continue to develop our creative and fun learning environment . It is better to be straightforward about expectations upfront. I look forward to being out and about with you during the Spring quarter. With your help, we won't have to talk about it again this year and we will have a safe and productive end of the year.
Dr. J
Javaune Adams-Gaston, Vice President for Student Life
Contact:
Javaune Adams-Gaston
Vicepresident@studentlife.osu.edu