By: Peter D’Avanzo

Buckhannon, WV — As the West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) semester draws to a close, campus safety has emerged as a growing concern among students. The issue is particularly pressing for those who feel more vulnerable at night and in residential halls, which has led to a need for enhanced safety measures across the campus. 

Many students have expressed mixed feelings about the current state of campus safety and security. While some feel reassured by recent security upgrades, many have voiced concerns about certain areas of campus that remain inadequately protected. A common issue raised by students is the poorly lit outdoor areas, as providing a sense of security during late hours is a need. Some students also concern the lack of security cameras in certain areas of campus, which they believe leaves key locations vulnerable to potential threats. 

Security Measures and Campus Response
Campus security officials are committed to student safety and highlighted several measures in place, including routine patrols, emergency call towers strategically located across campus, and the availability of safety escorts for students who may feel unsafe walking alone at night. Despite these efforts, students have continued to raise concerns about the adequacy of these measures, particularly in the face of the campus’s vulnerabilities.

In response to the growing concerns, the graduating class of 2025 has decided to take proactive steps by contributing to a fundraising effort to enhance campus safety and security for all students, guests, and faculty. This donation will be used specifically to purchase and install additional security cameras in high-risk areas. Students have welcomed the initiative, which they see as a positive move toward improving the overall safety environment at WVWC.

Looking Ahead: Collaboration for Safety
As the semester ends, students and the administration are working together to ensure that WVWC remains a safe and welcoming environment for all. With ongoing discussions between students, faculty, and campus security officials, changes will likely be made soon. The goal is to address immediate safety concerns and establish long-term solutions to protect the entire campus community.

In the coming weeks, the administration plans to review and potentially increase the number of security measures, improve lighting in dark areas, and implement additional safety protocols based on student feedback. The collective aim is to foster a campus environment where students can feel secure at all times—day or night—and where concerns about personal safety are promptly addressed.

The efforts being made by the WVWC community show a shared commitment to creating and shaping the future of campus security at the college.

Photo from My Buckhannon