Last week in Senate: Last semester with printers

By Ashley Kurz, Managing Editor

*** This article has been corrected. Please see the correct information here: https://www.griffinnewspaper.com/post/printing-on-campus-a-correction-to-last-week-in-senate. ***

Getting right to business at 2:30 p.m., Senate was gavelled in. The United Student Associate (USA) was very happy to welcome Randy Szukala, Canisius’ new director of Campus Safety, as a guest speaker. 

Szukala was open to any questions and assured all the senators that he would continue to answer questions for students in light of the new campus safety changes. He has almost 10 years of experience as North Tonawanda's chief of police, and a handful of years as safety director at both Niagara University and Medaille University, collectively. When asked about the new security on campus, he explained that there are 13 patrol officer positions, two supervisors and himself. All officers have taken an eight-hour course and 16 hours of in-person training which is repeated every two years. Szukala explained that law enforcement backgrounds are preferred and each officer is knowledgeable and trained in first aid. If they have provided aid to the best of their ability but students still need help, it is expected that the officer would handle 911 calls if needed. He said that the new group of safety officers are going to observe, detect and report to keep everyone safe and healthy. There were some issues brought up by senators which Szukala took seriously – he stated that “if you need help, just call.” After answering questions, Szukala said that any new training and programs performed by officers will be publicized as they occur so that the campus is kept up to date on public safety’s capabilities. He urged everyone to reach out to him with any questions or concerns because he is more than happy to help. Please reach out using this email, szukala1@canisius.edu, or call the Public Safety office, which can transfer students directly to him as needed. 

The only general concern voiced was regarding the dining hall. There was an incident where ham was not listed as an ingredient in the mac and cheese sauce served last week. This ended up affecting a Muslim student and possibly many more. This is an issue for vegetarians, vegans and Muslim students and was brought up to Chartwells management. 

Executive reports began with President DeGlopper discussing her work with Father Betti as of late. They are planning on implementing more traditions into the academic calendar. There is more information to come about potential new Griff ‘holidays.’ VPBF Peters announced the closing of finance board applications and that we should expect new faces and events. Advisor Francey stated that there is no penalty for students who obtain NFTA passes but choose not to use them. The access will be available during the academic year; however, we are unaware if students taking intersession and summer classes will still have access due to the holiday. 

The Diversity Chair mentioned their plans for interactive education projects for students, that will be seen across campus soon, in order to promote diverse education and inclusivity. Public Health Chair Riley announced a wellness table that will be outside of the library on Oct. 15, promoting sickness protection.

During liaison reports, Library Services Liaison McMaster announced that the third floor of the library will be finished by the spring semester. They also urged students to use the library help desk for any of their needs. Dining Hall Liaison Kosten discussed the recent food transparency problems, but any issues should be addressed to him and they will be dealt with directly by management. In addition, a new dining survey will be coming to students. Finally, ITS Liaison Firkowski announced that Canisius is partly outsourcing ITS services to Oculus. This is a higher education assistant company that aids with information technology service inquiries and issues. As a part of the Paperlite initiative, Canisius is moving to get rid of printers and plans to move all printing to a new printing center. Appointments will be needed to print for both students and faculty; however, printing will be higher quality, cheaper and more confidential. As for wi-fi issues, Liaison Firkowski assured the Senate that they are working in order of safety rather than convenience. 

The United Student Association (USA) Speaker Apps adjourned at 3:59 p.m.; the next meeting will be held next Friday, Oct. 3 at 2:30 p.m. in Old Main 203.