A Spot To Do Our Part
Susquehanna’s commitment to providing a safe campus was recently enhanced with an established haven for students. Just inside the entrance of the Blough-Weis Library is a colorful, comfortable space dedicated to advancing the university’s bystander intervention program.
“The Green Dot Spot is a reminder for everyone to do their part in the permanent reduction of power-based personal violence on campus, including sexual assault, dating/domestic violence and stalking,” says Tyler Cox, director of violence prevention.
The Green Dot Spot opened in November 2021 through collaboration among the Violence Intervention and Prevention Center, Blough-Weis Library, Advancement and Facilities Management.
“It was introduced as a place for students to use, and I see them eating, doing their work and hanging out,” says Brianna Tapia ’22, a library employee.
Sam Hoffman ’23, also employed in the library, says students find the Green Dot Spot a “comfy corner to chill.” He adds, “It’s one of the ways we are reminded of our responsibility to help prevent, intervene or stop a situation from worsening.”
Prior to launching Green Dot Bystander Intervention in fall 2020, several faculty and staff upskilled to become certified trainers. They now lead workshops that provide participants with an overview of interpersonal power-based violence and opportunities to practice bystander intervention techniques.
In 2021, Susquehanna was recognized with the Campus Prevention Network Seal of Prevention for demonstrating its commitment to programs tied to student safety, well-being and inclusion. Specifically, SU was distinguished for taking action through comprehensive, evidence-based digital prevention education on issues such as sexual assault, alcohol misuse, mental health and discrimination.
Radio Station Named in Honor of 50-year Founding GM
If ever there were a name synonymous with WQSU, it would be Larry Augustine. He had served as the founding general manager of the university’s radio station for 50 years since it hit the airwaves in 1967.
At an event to surprise its namesake, the Larry Augustine Studio at WQSU was dedicated in January 2022. In addition to the unveiling of the plaque bearing his name, the station’s recent exterior makeover was also shared with those in attendance.
In the naming of the studio, Augustine’s leadership at WQSU was recognized along with his work in establishing and expanding Susquehanna’s communications and theatre programs.
He was hired as a debate coach in 1966 and was promoted to chair of the speech and theater department — a position he held for 35 years. Before his retirement in 2016, he oversaw its restructuring, which led to an eventual separation into two distinct departments: communications and theatre.
Current WQSU General Manager Dawn Benfer says Augustine has been her mentor since she joined Susquehanna. “Professor Augustine is always ready to lend an ear and give some advice,” she says. “He gave 50 years to the university and the radio station. It wouldn’t be here without his dedication to Susquehanna.”
Credited with helping establish the nationally award-winning radio station, Augustine will be a name familiar to Susquehanna students for years to come.
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