SGA passes resolution advocating for safety

The Student Government Association (SGA) assembled in the senate chamber Tuesday Evening for the final time this semester to pass resolution 70-001, which aims to improve campus safety, especially on gamedays. 

The resolution comes after weeks of increased conversations about how to keep Troy students, faculty and staff safe. SGA Executive Vice President Jayden McQueen, a senior political science major from Crestview, Florida, says the resolution was prompted by concerns from Troy's student body as well as Troy University Police Department (TUPD). 

Safety measures were proposed by TUPD earlier in the semester, following a shooting incident on campus after a football game. 

“We were asked what we planned to do about the events that happened in September regarding a shooting,” McQueen said. “Of course, the Troy University Police Department are experts on the situation. 

“We have a strong partnership with them, and we believe their requests for security and safety features could help protect our students and help deter emergency situations.”  

The resolution included suggestions like metal detectors, improved surveillance systems and bag policies. 

“These policies have been proven at other universities to increase safety and promote a positive event experience,” McQueen said. “Proactive investment in safety measures demonstrates Troy University’s commitment to the protection and comfort of all individuals attending campus events.”  

Ariel Pratt, a junior nutrition major from Nassau, Bahamas, is the international student representative and chairwoman of safety and infrastructure. Pratt shared how she felt about the resolution when it was passed. 

“This resolution serves as a ‘we hear you’ to me,” Pratt said. “As a student body, we have experienced events that have altered the way we view our safety on campus. 

“However, the fast-acting TUPD and their willingness to work alongside SGA for the bettering of safety on campus speaks volumes. Hopefully, this first step leads to something great.” 

TUPD Police Chief George Beaudry, who has been a staunch supporter of updating Troy's security measures, is glad to see that progress is being made.   

“I truly appreciate that the Student Government Association is taking a stand and trying to help push through some of these measures that we have discussed,” Beaudry said. “I think it’s important that Troy’s administration hears these things not just from me. 

“I would appreciate it if we would consider swifter action and a timeline of how or what we are going to do to make campus a safer place.” 

It is important to note that TUPD’s recommended safety measures have not yet been implemented. Resolution 70-001 only formally recommends Troy’s administration to consider those measures.