Security, Community Involvement Among Topics in Fresno State Forum

It was a first for Dr. Joseph Castro in his time as president of Fresno State.  Tuesday night, he welcomed any and all members of the community, hoping for comments, concerns and suggestions.

He did not have to wait long, though the tone of the meeting was extremely positive.

"It wasn’t about who was right and who was wrong– it was about people putting their heads together and trying to come up with some ideas," said Steve Haze afterwards.  Haze spoke about community involvement in the forum.

"We are a public university," Dr. Castro said, "and we want to both share with the community what we’re doing and ask for advice."

One question that received a quick answer was about security.  Francesca Eidson remembers walking across a dark campus after night classes when she was a student.  She told Dr. Castro current students tell her it remains an issue.  

"The campus was dark, and nobody was around and security was an issue then.  It’s still an issue now," she said.

Dr. Castro told Eidson new lights are being installed this summer, which will do a lot to brighten up dark spots on campus.  He says they are also upgrading current lights to high efficiency bulbs.

Much of the comments were of praise.  One man wearing a Bulldog logo polo shirt complimented the entire athletics department over the past few years.

"We could not do any better," he said.  "Especially in the local area, with local clubs– local high schools– your coaches are out there.  Before you never saw them."