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Extra security has been added in Shott Hall via 32 cameras.

Lydia Freeman

February 25, 2012

Bluefield College recently upgraded the Student Activity Center (SAC) cameras to protect both the SAC and students.

“I would encourage student to know they have an extra measure of security with the new cameras,” said David Taylor, the vice president for student development. “Campus safety will be viewing the cameras each shift and should something ever happen we will have the ability to go and look at the recording to see details of the event.”

	Security Camera

The cameras are placed strategically around the SAC, allowing viewers to see almost any section at a variety of angles.

“One day we were watching people in the SAC before our SUB meeting,” said Anthony Green, a BC sophomore. “When Wully and Rachael (SUB members Wully Rojas and Rachel Stairs) were about to walk in, we all screamed their names.”

The BC Information Services and Technology (IST) department placed the cameras in the SAC during the month of January. Toward Jan. 23 the cameras were in working order.

“The SAC needed new cameras because the previous system was aging and experiencing serious technical difficulties,” said Steve Kessinger, BC’s head of IST. “We decided it would be easier and more cost effective to replace the system rather than attempting to repair the old one.”

The new cameras, according to Kessinger, are a cost-friendly improvement.

“The funding was part of the college’s budget,” said Kessinger, “It was a necessary expense to ensure the safety of the college students. The new system allows for complete coverage, low-light visibility, record in color, and also pick up audio.”

The new system has allowed for 32 cameras to be added to Shott Hall. IST, student development, and campus safety all believe this is a safety improvement.

“In the event of a security or safety incident, the cameras will help the college determine any persons involved to assess the situation,” said Kessinger. “There are now 32 cameras placed in Shott Hall, which we hope will promote a safe environment for everyone.”

IST hopes to continue improving the monitoring of BC buildings through cameras.

“Late spring semester or early summer, IST will be adding 16 cameras to the first floor of the science center,” said Kessinger. “We will also add cameras to the computer labs to protect the college’s investment in the new On-Demand Desktop Streaming Technology.”

While these cameras will protect students, they also provide an element of eeriness.

“It’s a little strange that someone is filming me whenever I go in the SAC,” said Emily Sears, a BC senior. “But I feel like it’s needed.”

Campus safety is now leaving the SAC opened all night. The added security of the campus and hourly walk-throughs are helping students have access to an all-night hang out.

“It’s so nice to have the SAC opened all night,” said Amanda Heller, a BC sophomore. “A lot of us do homework here and that way we never have to leave.”

The added security comes with a warning.

“I suspect fines and disciplinary action,” said Kessinger. “Typically if an event occurs, IST is contacted to assist in pulling the archived video. Then campus safety and Student Development are able to watch the footage.

Taylor also offered a warning to BC students.

“Overall, the SAC remains in really good shape,” said Taylor. “However, I would hope that knowledge of these new cameras cuts down on unwanted activity and language in the SAC.”

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