Chancellor appoints task force on campus safety

April 23, 2010 -- A task force on campus safety to examine current safety and security practices on campus has been formed at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro.

“The university community was stunned and saddened last week when one of our students, a resident of Collegiate Park Apartments, was shot in his apartment and died the next day,” said Chancellor Robert L. Potts. “This and other campus incidents in recent years have served to remind us of the vital importance of providing the highest level practicable of safety and security for all members of the campus community.”

Chancellor Potts has requested the service of 10 persons in various campus capacities to serve on the force, including director of Residence Life Patrick Dixon, Student Government Association president Adrian Everett, dean of the College of Business Dr. Len Frey, president of the Faculty Association Dr. Beverly Boals Gilbert, Jonesboro community representative Gary Harpole, vice chancellor of Finance and Administration Ed Kremers, president of the Graduate Student Council Kevin Linker, president of the Staff Senate Randy Martin, university counsel Lucinda McDaniel and vice chancellor of Student Affairs Dr. Rick Stripling. Dr. Stripling will serve as chair of the group.

Chancellor Potts has asked the task force to provide a written report detailing strengths and weaknesses of Arkansas State’s current practices and to recommend reasonable additions or changes to enhance the safety and security of campus residents, employees and visitors.

The task force will work toward completion and the issue of a report by June 30, 2010, outlining ASU’s safety and security. Recommendations will be considered and implemented to the extent feasible before students return to campus for the fall 2010 semester.

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