Faculty Senate discusses university events, budgets, campus safety

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Faculty Senate had extra material to cover in its January meeting because it did not meet in December.

Faculty Senate President John Fech opened with announcements about the Empowerment Forum and the second annual Water for Food conference.

NU President J.B. Milliken was next to speak. The university's budget for the fiscal year was the main topic of discussion during his speech. He also spoke about Innovation Campus, a research campus working to capitalize on research growth. He said it will create more jobs for students.

"I think there could be a number of partnerships and opportunities," Milliken said. "It's a very exciting plan, and it'll really start taking shape."

Vice Chancellor John Owens spoke on behalf of Chancellor Harvey Perlman and gave a few brief announcements since Perlman was out of town for this meeting.

Next, Fech introduced associate professor Mario Scalora and UNL Police Chief Owen Yardley from the Threat Assessment Team. A PowerPoint presentation gave the senate a better idea of what the team does for the university.

"Our goal is to maintain and enhance our ability for a safe environment," Scalora said.

One slide showed the type of situations the team deals with, including stalking, domestic abuse and threats. Several real cases that occurred at UNL's campus were presented, including one with a report of someone assaulting another student in a residence hall. The victim reported the student also threatened to put people "six feet under" if his family was threatened. The situation was eventually resolved.

"We strive as hard as we can to prevent that," said Scalora.

There was also a domestic partner situation in which a student made statements about obtaining cyanide to commit suicide. The student's partner reported it, and the student was caught, but not before he/she obtained the cyanide from the university.

The Threat Assessment Team also supervises special events, such as when guests or other important speakers come to UNL.

Yardley and Scalora encouraged anyone with any concerns to call their hot line, 402-472-2222.

"The consultation approach is highly recommended," Yardley said.

michellerieger@dailynebraskan.com