By Austin King
First, they threw away $1.5 million to bring the Jonas Brothers to Daytona, but I didn’t speak up because “Lovebug” really was a catchy song. Then they came for our print textbooks, but I didn’t speak up because my professor said we wouldn’t need the book for his class. Now, they are ignoring students and faculty who are in agreement on a smoking ban.
Enough is enough. Don’t let someone else, especially a college you pay to attend, ignore your voice. It’s time for students to stand up for themselves.
As of January 1, at least 648 college campuses nationwide were 100 percent smoke-free. The University of Florida implemented a tobacco-free policy in June of 2010. The University of Central Florida is in the midst of a transition to smoke-free for the Fall 2012 semester.
After facing little resistance from the Faculty Senate, Daytona State College’s smoking ban reached the Board of Trustees for approval on March 22. College President Carol Eaton expected little resistance, due to overwhelming support of the policy change. “Every one had an opportunity to voice their opinions about it,” Eaton said. “I think the majority of the people have said this is the direction we need to be going.”
Eaton is correct; students were given the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed change, in a survey sponsored by the “No Butts” Grant Program Committee. 70.1 percent of students, a clear majority, were in favor of a tobacco free policy on all DSC campuses.
With no discord between students or faculty, the Board had an easy decision on their hands. DSC would join the ranks of many colleges before them, making a leap toward a healthier and cleaner tomorrow.
Or not.
The Board instead took this opportunity to make sure students and faculty were aware – they know best.
With a seven of nine member majority, the consensus reached was that the administration needs a new proposal that includes covered designated smoking areas for smokers. Perhaps those board members will be donating their own tarps, poles and ashtrays. Tuition should not pay for these areas, because with the exception of the board, everyone is against it.
Board member John Tanner sounded like he was running for President. “Personal freedoms in this country are under assault all the time,” Tanner said. “I don’t want to be a part of that.” It seems the opinions of students and faculty become insignificantwhen they go against his beliefs.
In a letter to the editor to the Daytona Beach News-Journal on March 28, a Daytona State faculty member had choice words for the board. “As a college employee, I findit highly objectionable that the board disregarded what we had already agreed on.”
By taking such an easy issue and trying to turn it into politics, the Board of Trustees leaves us all scratching our heads. Make this right by listening to those around you.
Otherwise, if you keep ignoring those who staff your college and pay your tuition, don’t expect us to spare a cigarette when you’re stressed. DSC will be smoke free, whether the Board of Trustees likes it or not.