TORRIA CATRONE, Asst. Arts & Life Editor — Human beings are social animals. As the pandemic surges nationwide, social opportunities are greatly hindered. However, it’s difficult to fully quell the urge for socialization, even when the consequences associated with gatherings include a major health risk for both those in attendance and everyone else they will come into contact within their daily lives.
For many students on campus at Denison, the risk is one they are willing to take. Despite the guidelines in place to deter situations in which COVID-19 could be easily spread, there are still parties to be found all over campus on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. Other violat
ions, like gatherings in residential hall rooms, are also happening simultaneously.
Director of Campus Safety James O’Neill described how social evenings have changed as a result of the pandemic: “We have seen groups spreading out across campus to areas that traditionally have not been part of the social scene. Also, most students should have noticed an increased presence of Campus Safety Officers and Student Development staff members… Our hope is that this will deter large gatherings.”
The choices of the few affect the many, and some students said they feel frustrated that their peers continue to act irresponsibly. One student said that “it’s annoying that people will go out and party and just put on their masks when Campo [campus safety] is around.” Such half-attempts at following the rules are increasingly prevalent and do not protect anyone.
Dean of Students Erik Farley said he has one message for those students who continue to violate community guidelines: “Limiting exposure is paramount.” He mentioned that “students are expected to comply with university directives, guidance, and practices of physical distancing, mask wearing, off-campus travel, visitors or guests, and other expectations adopted for the current public health context.” If these community health and safety guidelines are not adhered to, he said it will “be a basis for discipline up to and including separation from the University.”
It is unclear as of yet when campus will ever return to a sense of normalcy. In the meantime, Denison staff have been making an effort to host safe, fun events such as movie showings or food truck pop-ups in an attempt to reduce other less responsible outings.
With many students on campus tiring of the rules and craving social interactions that are not limited by the pandemic, it can be hard to stay positive. O’Neill said he wants to remind everyone that “although this is probably not how anyone envisioned their college years, there is a light at the end of this.”