As a concerned member of the Christopher Newport University (CNU) community, I am writing this petition to urge the university administration to take immediate action in making CNU a blue light campus. This is not only crucial for the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff but also for the entire Newport News community.

One time, I experienced an alarming incident that left me feeling vulnerable and unsafe on campus. It was late at night when two women cornered my friends and me outside of Forbes. Despite our best efforts to stop talking to them and get away, they persistently followed us, insisting we give them our phone numbers. With no one around us and nowhere to go that they couldn't follow, we felt trapped and had no choice but to comply with their demands.

This incident could have been prevented or handled differently if CNU were equipped with blue light emergency poles throughout its campus. These poles serve as an essential safety measure by providing direct access to emergency services at the touch of a button. By installing these blue light poles strategically across campus grounds, individuals facing similar situations would be able to call for help promptly.

Accordingly, I propose that CNU takes immediate action in becoming a blue light campus by installing these emergency poles in key locations across its premises. This will not only enhance personal safety but also act as a deterrent against potential threats or criminal activities on campus.

To support this petition's cause with relevant facts:

1) Blue Light Systems: Numerous universities across the United States have successfully implemented blue light systems on their campuses as part of their commitment towards ensuring student safety. These systems have proven effective in deterring crime rates while providing peace of mind within educational institutions.

2) Crime Statistics: Incidents of harassment, assault, and other criminal activities have been reported in the vicinity of CNU. By becoming a blue light campus, CNU can take proactive measures to address these concerns and ensure the safety of its community members.

By signing this petition, you are joining me in urging the administration at Christopher Newport University to prioritize the safety and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff by implementing a blue light system across campus. Together, we can create an environment where everyone feels secure and protected.

Let's make our voices heard for a safer CNU community!

Emily McGovern.