LaForge was featured in the Winter 2015 edition of Hinds Community College’s alumni publication Hindsight. He met with students, faculty and administration at the Raymond campus during December to talk about scholarships and opportunities that are available to transfer students at Delta State.
Hindsight – Hinds Community College – Winter 2015
President LaForge welcomes the audience to another edition of fireside chat. He talks about the very important topic of campus safety. As a university, the goal is to protect the lives and property of our campus community.
University Police Chief Lynn Buford joins the chat to talk about safety and how our police department serves campus. Buford provides insight into what he and his staff do on campus to ensure safety.
UPD enforces all driving and parking regulations and manages motor vehicle registrations. The Okra Alert Text Messaging system is used to send emergency text messages to those registered to receive them. Students, staff and faculty may enroll through myDSU online by providing their cell phone number. Emergency phones are located across campus. They are identified with a reflective sign and blue light. The call button contacts the police directly. The crime prevention program is dedicated to reducing criminal opportunities and encourages campus community members to take responsibility for their own safety and security.
These duties are vital to smooth and safe campus operation. Additional services are also offered to the campus community.
Courtesy or safety escorts are provided to all students, faculty, staff and visitors on campus. This crime prevention service is primarily used after dark. UPD also provides the campus community with free car boost or vehicle unlock services. If a vehicle battery dies on campus or you lock your keys in your car, call 662-846-4155. Students and any member of the University community may register a bicycle for free for the sole purpose of having their number and description on record in case of theft.
LaForge thanks Buford and talks about another safety measure.
“One way that you can take responsibility for your safety during winter weather is by attending the “Winter Weather College Tour” presented by the Mississippi Department of Transportation on our campus today. M-DOT will be providing tips on how to stay safe and prepare vehicles for winter weather. That event begins at 11 a.m. in the Student Union, will last until 1:30, and is free to anyone.”
The President closes with thanks and encourages prospective and current students to register for class.
“If you are looking for a college home or have been thinking about going back to school, it’s not too late. You have until Wednesday to register for spring classes. Just contact our Admissions office at 662-846-4020 for more information.”
Rotarians Jutta Ferretti (left) and President William LaForge (right) welcome Rotary District Governor Bob Bickley as the guest speaker at the Cleveland Rotary Club. Bickley represents District 6800 of Rotary International, which encompasses clubs in the Mississippi Delta, North Mississippi, and the Memphis area. Bickley shared with the Cleveland Rotary Club that his son and daughter-in-law, Sid and Ellen Bickley, are graduates of Delta State University and that his granddaughter, Caroline Bickley, is a freshman at Delta State University. Caroline is a graduate of DeSoto Central High School in DeSoto County.