Research universities pride themselves on making arguments and decisions based on logic, reason and facts. However, some members of our University Governance here at Virginia Tech seem to think they are above that.
First, I pose a question: If you were asked by friends to go on a cruise, would you say yes before you knew how much it would cost, where you were going, and when it was? Of course not.
Since this is true, last night’s vote by the Commission on Student Affairs should concern you. With a serious issue due for a vote, one member asked to table the resolution until some confusion could be resolved and sufficient information made available to make an informed vote. About 10 members agreed, but more voted to continue discussion. A few more members made comments, admitting along the way that they were unsure about some things. Then, the irreprehensible action – they called the question, bringing the resolution to a vote.
For those who’ve assumed our leadership has been making informed and objective decisions, this should be a wake-up call. Not that this is a surprise to most who have been engaged in recent national news, but as long as we sit aside, our leaders both near and far will take their accountability lightly.
The topic of discussion Thursday night was a proposed ban on individuals storing their ammunition, including paintball and airsoft, on campus. With safety in question, concern was warranted. I will refrain from getting into the specific arguments here in favor of saying there was disagreement on three issues: research about ammunition being a fire hazard, the Tech Police Department being able to store people’s ammunition in addition to the firearms they already store, and some people having fears of ammunition on campus.
Instead of delaying the vote to gather the necessary information, they moved forward without the requested information. Assume they will do it again, unless we express concern.
Ken Stanton,
Vice President of Students for Concealed Carry on Campus