My name is Jalen Whitfield, and I am Mr. Rawlings. Due to this, I am connected to the operations at Rawlings Dining Hall, an iconic establishment that has served the Morgan State University community for years. Recently, the administration decided to close Rawlings Dining Hall on 10/23 , a decision that sparked frustration and concern among students, faculty, and staff alike. Our dining hall has been more than just a place for meals—it's been a community hub, a place where relationships are fostered and cultural exchanges happen daily.

The closure of Rawlings Dining Hall will not only disrupt the daily routines of many but also strip away a significant aspect of campus life here in Baltimore, MD. It is an essential resource for students, offering diverse meal options catering to various dietary needs and economic backgrounds. In additon to this, Rawlings Dining Hall is a safe space for men to relax and decompress. Its closure could lead to increased food insecurity among our students, and will increase the traffic inside Thurgood Marshall Dining Hall.

Moreover, the dining hall has been a steadfast source of employment for both university students and local residents. The closure will result in numerous job losses, affecting individuals' livelihoods at a time when economic stability is crucial. Ending this vital resource's operation without a viable alternative will lead to undue hardship for both employees and students reliant on its services.

We believe there's a way to maintain operations at Rawlings Dining Hall by reassessing the decision-making process, evaluating fiscal strategies, or even reconsidering budget allocations. We urge the Morgan State University administration to work collectively with students, staff, and community members to explore feasible alternatives that would allow Rawlings Dining Hall to remain open.

We cannot lose such a vital component of our campus community without exhausting all possible solutions. Please help us make a difference by signing this petition to keep Rawlings Dining Hall open. Let us preserve the spirit and support system that this dining hall provides to everyone at Morgan State University.