At exactly 5:02 p.m., the Senate meeting was called to order, beginning what seemed like an ordinary session filled with updates and new business. The room was calm, students took their seats, and senators prepared to discuss routine matters. But by the end of the meeting at 5:44 p.m., the atmosphere had completely changed—what started as a normal day of campus politics quickly turned into a tense conversation about student safety and communication.
The meeting began with the Senate reviewing old business before moving into new topics. One of the first major highlights came when Justin Thomas was unanimously voted by the Senate to serve as the new President Pro Tempore, marking a moment of unity among the student leaders.
Next, Sophomore Justice Kelsi Long spoke on behalf of the Judicial Branch, requesting an annual budget to help fund their required programs. She explained that in the past, members had to pay for certain activities out of their own pockets. Her words highlighted the need for greater financial support for organizations that serve and represent the student body.
Following that, Angelina Lougo took the floor to address an issue that might sound small but affects many students daily—library etiquette. She expressed frustration that the library, a place meant for studying and quiet focus, has become a space where some students go to play around instead of working. Her request for awareness brought light to a concern that many students could relate to.
The meeting took an unexpected turn when the topic of campus safety arose. Desireé Honoré Thomas, Associate Vice President and Senior Administrative Operations Officer, spoke on behalf of the administration to clarify how emergency communication is handled. She explained that the first round of notifications during emergencies is sent through the JagSafe app, the university’s safety platform. When she asked the crowd who had the app downloaded, the room fell silent, with only a few hands raised. Thomas reminded everyone that while the administration is doing its best to keep students safe, safety is also a shared responsibility. “We have to do our part too,” she said.
However, the conversation grew more serious when Thomas revealed that the university is considering active shooter drills on campus—without notifying students beforehand whether the drill is real or not. The statement immediately sparked concern among those in attendance. Secretary of the Senate Vibra Hopkins spoke up, asking, “Can we at least be notified if it is real or not? That would be very traumatizing.” Thomas responded, “Safety is the first priority. It is scary, but what happens if it is for real?”
The meeting adjourned at 5:44 p.m., but the tension lingered. What began as a typical Senate session ended with a powerful reminder that campus safety remains one of the most pressing issues facing students today. For now, Jags are being urged to download the JagSafe app and stay alert—because when it comes to safety, every second counts.
