The Den installs video security cameras

The Den is a hot spot for student activity on any given day; however, it is now the home to a new camera system put in place for enhanced security. The newly installed cameras were placed throughout the entire facility on Monday, Sept. 19, and were completed on Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Campus Life Business Manager Jonathan Meyer says this was a necessary precaution. “Last year there was a theft, a PlayStation 3 gaming system worth about $300, which caused a huge inconvenience to us and the students; however, it was recovered and the person was caught,” Meyer said.

This year it was decided that an investment in security cameras was the right move for The Den, according to SGA President Evan Karanovich.“With a great deal of expensive electronics and equipment in the space, including flat screen TVs, computers, video games and systems, as well as other items, it is important that we protect the investment already made,” Karanovich said.

After voicing his opinion to Campus Life and SGA, SABC allocated $5,000 for Campus Life to receive the new cameras. “Five thousand dollars, in my opinion, is a sound investment when it comes to the security of our students and the facility they enjoy,” Karanovich said.

Meyer has the same concerns as Karanovich.

“We have a trained and diligent staff at The Den, but they can’t watch everything and every student at once,” Meyer said.

Karanovich, who is chairman of the SABC, remained close to the project, seeing it from start to finish.

“We are thankful for the partnership with the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Occupational Safety, who paid for the cameras, and for Waddell & Company for their expertise in the installation progress,” Karanovich said. “SABC used our allocated budget to pay for the installation and wall mounts for the cameras.”

Because of the campaigning Karanovich did for the security cameras, students can now relax at The Den with ease, knowing that the facility is safe. The Den is a popular space for students; of the 1,000 freshmen who have completed MAP-Works, 83 percent had visited The Den according to Paul Jahr, associate vice president for Student Affairs.

“I think the security cameras are a good idea, since it would ensure that there is no theft,” said Ariana Yandell, sophomore art history major.

Students concerned with the budget, and whether or not this will make student fees increase should not fret, according to Karanovich.

“This was a team effort, in a way to directly minimize the fiscal impact placed student dollars while still ensuring the maximum protection,” Karanovich said.