By Brittany Walker/reporter
South Campus students, administrators and faculty discussed student concerns and grievances in open dialogue Nov. 20, particularly use of the Student Center and student services.
South Campus president Ernest Thomas said the process of putting in data centers to provide better wireless access throughout the campus has begun. Work will begin in the Student Center with a projected January completion.
Concerns about textbook prices were also addressed, and administrators said lower price options are being explored.
In the open dialogue, one student suggested student bus passes. Lakisha Morgan told administrators that some students may struggle to pay for bus services and would benefit from bus passes. She said transportation has become a growing concern for students, and bus passes could reduce parking and help the environment.
Administrators agreed to explore options for bus passes.
Student Kim Gooden said the issues discussed were for all students.
“We are here to help everyone,” she said.
Regarding the Student Center, students asked for extended cafeteria hours and lower food prices.
A representative of Educational Catering Inc., which operated the cafeteria, said ECI would need more staff to support an extension of hours, and the prices of food have not increased.
Students also requested a separate lounge area beyond the cafeteria for relaxing and socializing.
Vice President of Student Development Services Juan Garcia said the campus is expanding with close to 12,000 students, so the priority is space for classrooms and eating facilities.
Administrators and students agreed that available space for a lounge area and another game room should be considered.
Thomas said a finite amount of space is available on campus, so while he believes it is important for administrators to know student issues, students need to remember there are limitations.
Administrators also agreed to consider access to various channels on the television in the Student Center. Channels students want include ESPN, Lifetime and Discovery Channel.
Other issues students and administrators agreed were important include parking and smoking signage on campus, posting of bus schedules and better cafeteria seating.
