2008 Woodie Awards
Littering and Vandalism Continues in Campus Apartments
Christina Hoffman
Issue date: 5/7/08 Section: News
Garbage and vandalism in Pioneer and Heritage Halls is not an uncommon sight. Records from the past three semesters show numerous reports of graffiti, garbage bags in hallways, beer cans in elevators and broken lights and exit signs in several hallways. Residents who value cleanliness say that they're angry to have to live in these filthy conditions.
What can be done to change the negative impression of the apartments into a more positive one? William Paterson University and Residence Life are in the process of eliminating the negative conditions by continuing their efforts to create a comfortable and safe environment for all residents.
Nicholas DiMinni, assistant director of Residence Life, is looking to the future to ensure that residents do feel safe in dormitories.
"It is the rights of others to have a comfortable, safe community," said DiMinni. "Creating an environment [that is safe and comfortable] can support a student's overall experience."
According to records provided by Residence Life, in Fall 2006 there were 42 reported cases of damages in Heritage Hall. These damages, which included elevator vandalism, trash, vomit and broken lights generated a total of $2,162.00 to be split amongst Heritage Hall residents to pay. The following semester there were only six reported damage cases, which totaled $649.00. Fall 2007 had 13 reported cases of damages with a total of $231.00. While this spring semester has not been entered into computers, there is a pile of complaints that have been accumulating.
While reported cases of damages have gone down, there are still damages that do not get reported. Some residents might be afraid of the repercussions of reporting a group of people who might cause these damages.
"We must reward the majority," explained DiMinni, "and recognize that individuals are responsible for themselves and others. Others must improve their knowledge of the rights of others."
Many residents are wondering if WPU is taking steps to create a better living environment for its students.
What can be done to change the negative impression of the apartments into a more positive one? William Paterson University and Residence Life are in the process of eliminating the negative conditions by continuing their efforts to create a comfortable and safe environment for all residents.
Nicholas DiMinni, assistant director of Residence Life, is looking to the future to ensure that residents do feel safe in dormitories.
"It is the rights of others to have a comfortable, safe community," said DiMinni. "Creating an environment [that is safe and comfortable] can support a student's overall experience."
According to records provided by Residence Life, in Fall 2006 there were 42 reported cases of damages in Heritage Hall. These damages, which included elevator vandalism, trash, vomit and broken lights generated a total of $2,162.00 to be split amongst Heritage Hall residents to pay. The following semester there were only six reported damage cases, which totaled $649.00. Fall 2007 had 13 reported cases of damages with a total of $231.00. While this spring semester has not been entered into computers, there is a pile of complaints that have been accumulating.
While reported cases of damages have gone down, there are still damages that do not get reported. Some residents might be afraid of the repercussions of reporting a group of people who might cause these damages.
"We must reward the majority," explained DiMinni, "and recognize that individuals are responsible for themselves and others. Others must improve their knowledge of the rights of others."
Many residents are wondering if WPU is taking steps to create a better living environment for its students.
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