In the hit reality television show “Undercover Boss,” business owners all over the country go “undercover” as an employee within their own business. The objective is to gain hands-on learning experience of what goes on directly within an organization of which a chief executive often may not be aware.
However, at Shippensburg University, the top officials within all branches of the campus use a different tactic. On March 28, “Presidents Hour” took place inside the Presidents Hall multipurpose room. On hand was a panel of SU’s top officials from police and safety, dining services and student affairs.
For an hour beginning at 8 p.m., SU students reserved the right to ask any questions or state concerns directly to the campus’ top resources. Headlining the panel was SU President George “Jody” Harpster.
“It is very important for all the students to have access to all the administrators,” Harpster said. “We are the leadership of the university, so I am honored that students want to come and talk to me about issues.”
Harpster cited the success of “Presidents Hour” at SU, dating back 20 years ago, when he took over as the vice president of student affairs.
“I think it is critically important for students to have access and ask whatever questions they want directly to the leadership, and they have certainly taken advantage over the years,” Harpster said.
Other administrators in attendance were Roger Serr, vice president of student affairs; David Lovett, associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students; and Barry McClanahan, director of housing and residence life.
Topics announced at the meeting included the addition of a sidewalk between Mathematics/Computing Technologies Center and Grove Hall. The design is currently in progress and is planned to be installed this summer. In addition, it was announced that Adams Drive is to undergo repavement during the summer.
“It is good on Shippensburg to offer this opportunity for their students,” sophomore Justin Goodhart said. “These are students that have concerns and want input, and I admire the administrators offering a chance to directly listen.”
Concerns raised by students during the meeting with administrators included Ceddia Union Building’s Dunkin’ Donuts’ short hours of operations on the weekend, as well as Chickendipity’s recently cut operations. Solutions to have Dunkin’ Donuts remain open longer on weekends are currently being researched. Dining services is considering opening Dunkin’ Donuts on the weekends with a limited menu. Chickendipity’s recent early closures have resulted in “issues with staffing.”
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