Sodexho raises security with camera installation

     Due to security and safety purposes, cameras were installed a few weeks ago throughout the Sodexho dining area.
This installation is just one of the many security phases that have occurred at GCSU.
     Neal Siegler, general manager of Dining Services, wants students and Sodexho employees to know these cameras exist. He recently visited other campuses that have cameras dispersed throughout dining halls and proceeded to converse with auxiliary services at GCSU before making the decision to install here.
     Cameras have been placed around the kitchen, loading dock, hallways, cash registers and the front and back entrances to Sodexho.
     There is a lot of product that goes into and out of Sodexho’s operations. Making sure the entire product is delivered properly to those who pay for it is one of the missions of these new cameras. GCSU wants to ensure that those who eat in Sodexho are paying for their meals.
     “It is in the students’ best interest to use their meals,” said Siegler. “Food is not free. Somebody has to pay for it.”
Siegler, along with public safety, has access to these cameras. Regardless of whether or not the cameras are being monitored, everything that happens around and within  Sodexho is being captured on tape. Students who have previously sneaked into the Sodexho dining area without swiping their Bobcat card or paying for their meal are being caught and turned over to Student Affairs.
     A couple weeks ago psychology major Ross Taylor made his way to the back entrance to let in a friend who was not on the meal plan. Siegler arrived at the scene within approximately 30 seconds to speak with the young men.
     “The doors locked behind us and we noticed a camera after we got stuck in that room,” said Taylor. “Fortunately, Siegler let us go with a warning.”
     This warning may have occurred because the boys did not make it to the dining area, where Taylor’s friend could have eaten a free meal. Siegler wants students to be aware of the cameras. However, once more students learn about the new installation, student affairs will be dealing with this issue.
     Sneaking into Sodexho and eating a free meal is breaking  GCSU’s code of conduct. The honor code clearly defines stealing as “the appropriation of money or property belonging to another person, organization, or the University, or the borrowing of property without the knowledge of the owner.”
     “Do you really want to be kicked out of school over a seven dollar meal?” said Siegler.
     Daniel Troutman, junior mass communication major, has been on GCSU’s meal plan for almost three years. The news of more security cameras dispersed throughout Sodexho was new to him, and his reaction was of mixed feelings.
     “It’s a little unsettling knowing that we are being monitored, but I understand why they’re doing it,” said Troutman. “Saga is doing a lot to save money and provide safety, so I’m OK with it.”
     Siegler has received a fair amount of positive feedback about the new cameras. They are not here to cause trouble or anxiety. Rather, they were installed to provide safety and to ensure that students uphold GCSU’s honor code.
     “Think about it,” said Siegler. “Everyone wins.”

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Apr 4 2008. Filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry