‘Proactive measures’ in place for homecoming, president says

President Dwaun J. Warmack speaks to student reporters about homecoming. (Panther photo)

Amid rising safety concerns, Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack spoke with student reporters on Nov. 11 about homecoming plans.

Claflin University officials are concerned about homecoming protocols following the South Carolina State homecoming shooting on Oct. 4 that left one person dead and two injured.

“What Claflin has done, we have been very intentional about our proactive measures,” Warmack said.

Warmack called a town hall meeting on Oct. 15 to talk to students about how this year's homecoming will look, providing options to students as well as taking ideas on ensuring safety.

“From that meeting, we have multiple follow-ups with our leadership, student government and SAB, and we’ve come to the conclusion that we will be having tailgate, we will be having concert, homecoming will still go on,” Warmack said.

He detailed safety protocols for this year's homecoming and its big day on Nov. 22.

Safety and security

• An increased presence by law enforcement and security personnel will be reality throughout homecoming. Included are expanded campus surveillance, more lighting and controlled entry points.

• A zero-tolerance policy for weapons will be enforced.

• The use of marijuana and any illegal drug is strictly prohibited.

• If suspicious activity is suspected, call Campus Public Safety at 803-535-5444

• Clear bags will also be enforced at all major events and venues. This policy applies to EVERYONE. Any non-clear bags are prohibited.

• Security checkpoints will be established at all major venues.

• Everyone will be required to present an ID to enter the tailgate. Students are required to have their student ID to access campus and events.

• Security will monitor all entry points.

Tailgating

• Anyone under 18 years of age, except for current Claflin students, must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

• Anyone 16 years of age or older must have a government-issued ID.

• The tailgate area on (Goff Avenue) will have a controlled perimeter.

•  To conclude the homecoming celebration, all amplified music will end at 6 pm and tailgating will finish at 7 on Saturday.