On my way to class this morning I paused to reflect on the past year. Being that it is the anniversary of the awful incident at Virginia Tech I found myself wondering whether or not the University and the student government have done enough to create a safe campus.

In reflecting upon some of MSA’s most important and powerful initiatives a continuous theme is prevalent: safety on campus. This is not by accident: safety is an essential issue for the campus community, especially students.  Contrary to a Minnesota Daily editorial published last week, MSA’s initiatives have impacted the University students in lasting ways and will continue to do so.

First, MSA started the MSA Express, a late-night safety van, which has been incorporated into the University culture by turning it into a Boynton Health Services campus life program. This van services over 70 students per night of operation and will only continue to expand with Boynton’s support.

 MSA administration also worked with the Office of Student Affairs and the President’s Office to begin a conversation about extending the Washington Avenue Bridge Circulator hours.  This is an extremely important safety issue to students living in Dinkytown including Sanford Hall, Wilkins Hall, and the Greek community.  Currently the University administration is seriously considering running a pilot program for this coming fall.

MSA also partnered with University Relations and the UMPD to support and promote safety initiatives including the Text-U program and the University Emergency Preparedness website (http://www1.umn.edu/prepared/).  These programs promote measures that work to minimize Virginia Tech-like situations.

Overall, MSA has worked to promote student safety in many positive ways but must continue to make this issue a high priority. As this academic year comes to a close, I hope you, as students, continue to bring your safety issues forth to MSA.  As always, we want to be your voice.