TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Homecoming week has begun at Indiana State University and Koby Clark, a senior communications major, is looking forward to the big game.
“I ended up calling a football game this Saturday. So being able to make that happen is a great opportunity not only for myself but also for my future,” Clark said.
As students and alumni get excited for all the events, the ISU Police Department begins planning. ISU Public Safety Director and Chief of Police Michelle Barrett said the plan has been in the works since last spring.
“Right now, this machine is working pretty well just making sure that we have staffing and availability for all campus-sponsored events.” “We support all campus-sponsored events like on-campus events and parades. And, of course, tailgating and football games in the stadium,” he said.
When many people think of Homecoming at ISU, they think of “The Walk.” “The Walk” takes place off-campus and is not sponsored by the university.
“Since it’s not campus-sponsored, the Terre Haute Police Department and Vigo County Sheriff’s Department are assisting with the walk. We also went to taverns and bars along the way,” Barrett said.
While “The Walk” is said to still be a hot topic, ISU PD is working with local law enforcement to keep everyone safe.
“Right now, we’re offering sober rides. They have some sober monitors that can also walk, and the university actually sponsors those events. It’s actually in the Wabash shopping district. There are buses that pick you up at specific bus stops along the way, take you to the stadium, and return to campus after the game and at various times during the game. They take you directly,” Barrett said.
Jada Holmes, a freshman at ISU, said the school does a good job of making her feel safe, saying, “As far as I know, I feel pretty safe on this campus, but that’s because of the Homecoming Parade. I don’t think it will change much.”
Does ISU PD think crime will increase during Homecoming week?
“I think it’s probably going to increase a little bit more because of the influx of people, so it’s not just the students who are on campus, but their friends, maybe alumni, family members, all coming to the event,” Barrett said. Ta.
As officials continue to develop safety plans, Clark is focused on his opportunity to provide live coverage on ISU’s student media radio station, WZIS.
It’s just a thrill for me. I love expressing my emotions and telling stories through sports, and I wouldn’t trade that for the world. I’m really happy to have this opportunity,” Clark said.