January 17, 2017
Welcome to the spring 2017 semester
Submitted by President Richard Myers
Dear students,
To all new students, welcome to the K-State family! To all returning students, welcome back for the spring 2017 semester. I hope your semester will be productive, energizing and, most importantly, safe. As we enter a new year, let's look out for ourselves and each other on all of our campuses.
This starts with always being aware of your surroundings — especially when crossing roads. The university is making continual improvements to reduce vehicular traffic on the Manhattan campus, but many areas remain where cars and people intersect. I know we live in a world with an increasing number of distractions, but looking both ways before you start to cross any road is an important rule that still applies into adulthood. Please don't assume others are paying attention.
Only use marked crosswalks, and if they have a signal, use that as well. Wait for the signal before crossing because cars have blind spots and may not see pedestrians in time. Parking lots can be especially hazardous, so please be alert and don't walk down the middle where cars drive. Drivers and bicyclists also need to be aware of others and their potential for distraction. Your safety is important, and we need everyone's help in looking out for the K-State family.
The university offers many services to help in other areas of safety. If you find yourself in need of any of the following services, please use them:
- Sign up for K-State Alerts to get emergency notifications by text, email or phone call and download the K-State mobile app to communicate directly to police in the event of an emergency.
- Every student receives four free counseling sessions per year from the university's counseling services. There are reduced rates for sessions beyond the four.
- Wildcat Walk will escort you safely across campus at night. Call 395-SAFE (395-7233), or push one of the blue light emergency buttons.
- SafeRide provides a safe ride home for K-State students and guests who live within the designated city limits of Manhattan. The service runs from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
- Anyone may report a concern for a student who is a danger to themselves or others, and K-Staters also are encouraged to report all discrimination, harassment and sexual violence.
As this semester begins, I encourage you to take a few minutes to learn more about campus safety. Please have a great semester, and remember it's up to all of us to keep the K-State family safe.
Richard B. Myers
President