Columbus State University has decided to move the security officer for the Schwob School of Music to the newly constructed Frank D. Brown Hall with no intention of providing a replacement. They intend to have this security officer work primarily in the Frank D. Brown Hall and occasionally check on Schwob. Unfortunately, this is at least a ten-minute walk. Even driving, this leaves one of the two buildings without an officer for a period of time.
The Schwob School of Music is the only downtown RiverPark building that does not require a CSU ID for entry 24/7. With private music lessons offered throughout the day, community ensemble rehearsals in the evenings, and public access to the Simon Schwob Memorial Library, keeping this building locked throughout the day would not be a reasonable solution.
In April 2017, Columbus State University's RiverPark campus has been negatively affected by two crimes involving a handgun. While downtown Columbus is a generally safe environment, there are always risks and dangers associated with living in a city. The Columbus State University Police Department maintains an online police activity log, and some of the incidents recorded within a five-block radius of the Music School are provided below this message.
As a female college student, I have personally experienced harassment and uncomfortable situations throughout my five years studying in Columbus, but I have always taken solace and comfort knowing that Schwob is a building where I know I can be safe. In light of the recent, local crimes and the numerous campus shootings this generation has seen, the thought of not having an officer at the door is incredibly disconcerting.
Please sign this petition to ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff, and community members who use the Schwob School of Music daily.
4/17/2017: Sexual Assault
4/19/2017: Attempted Armed Robbery
April 8, 2017: Theft
April 6, 2017: Theft
March 13, 2017: Burglary & Battery
February 9, 2017: Harassment
January 17, 2017: Theft
June 20, 2016: Armed Robbery
