The physical damage of the beloved Southern University was brought to the attention of many across the state after an article was published on March 30 by Chair and Professor of LSU’s Manship School of Mass Communication, Bob Mann.
Mann tells the truth of how Southern University’s budget suffered during Governor Bobby Jindal’s time in office, leaving the historic campus in ruins.
“No school’s campus better represents the neglect of Louisiana higher education than Southern,” Mann writes.
Budget cuts have caused the university to increase student tuition and fees, remove some degree programs and courses, and have even forced the early retirement of some faculty members and staff.
Mann’s article quotes figures from a report performed by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The goal of the report published on February 17, 2016 was to evaluate the conditions of campus buildings and to identify any issues that could affect the health and welfare of students, faculty, staff, and visitors to SUBR.
Twenty-One buildings on Southern’s campus have been cited by the Office of the State Fire Marshall because of life safety code deficiencies. Nineteen of these buildings have been cited by the Fire Marshall over 73 times.
Inoperable fire alarms, mold, roof leaks, non-functioning air conditioners and ventilation systems, restricted elevator use and plumbing backups are just some of the issues that the university faces in 2016.
These conditions create an environment unhealthy and unsafe for students, faculty and staff.
Mann’s commentary was composed of dreadful facts and created different reactions amongst the Jaguar Nation. For some, it was a much needed revelation but for others it was a reminder of an ongoing battle that the university has been fighting for years.
After reading the article, Business Management Junior, Kori Hawkins of Baton Rouge replied, “The article has some truth to it but I feel some stuff was left out. The culture and learning environment on campus is still positive. The students are still excited to be a part of Southern University.”
According to the report published by the Legislative Auditor, over the past two years SU has submitted over 41 appropriation requests to address major repair and maintenance issues, totaling $21.7 million. Of those 41 requests, only seven projects have been approved, totaling $4.8 million.
“I really wish we had more supporters to pour into Southern’s venue, mostly alumni who care enough to step up where the government is not,” said Junior Broadcast Journalism major Rae’ven Jackson of Prairieville, Louisiana.
Mann compares the campus of Southern University to the Tigers’ habitat of LSU across town and poses the question of whether or not the school would be in such disgusting conditions if the majority of its students and faculty members were not African-American.
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Shame on Southern University A campus in neglect
April 12, 2016
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