Editorial - WVU should be stern with street fires

On Tuesday, West Virginia University concluded 55 student disciplinary proceedings for the school year, 21 of which involved cases of malicious burning. There was no confirmation of the results of each individual case, though 10 resulted in expulsion and 26 in suspensions.

Other cases involved drug use, sexual assault and property destruction.

According to Interim Dean of Students Corey Farris, additional cases are pending.

There were 36 fires reported in Morgantown during this year’s St. Patrick’s Day weekend, but only 10 expulsions. It seems as though the University, while stern with some, was too lenient in doling out punishments.

WVU students must begin to realize they are adults, and their actions come with consequences.

The image of WVU will never improve as long as students think they can do what they want with no repercussion. Setting the streets ablaze not only tarnishes the image of the University, but it is also dangerous.

A mob mentality may be difficult to break, especially when there are hundreds of intoxicated young adults who feel they are invincible, but it can – and must – be done.

There should be a zero-tolerance policy in place to deter future fires from being set in the streets of Morgantown.

Our reputation, while amusing to some, does nothing positive for our University or surrounding community.

Being known as the wildest school in the country should only amuse children, not adults. And yes, if you are of age to attend this university, you are an adult.

Most students want what’s best for them, which is why they spend thousands of dollars and countless hours improving their lives by continuing their education here at WVU.

It is a small minority of students who perform these reckless acts, but it reflects negatively on the entire student body.

Officials with the Sunnyside Up have launched the "Learn Not to Burn" campaign, which educates students on the dangers of fires. But WVU students should not have to be taught not to set fires in the street.

It seems just as ridiculous as a "Look Both Ways Before You Cross the Street" campaign.

If you don’t understand that it is not acceptable to set fires in the street by the time you reach adulthood, you are not ready to attend college.

The University must set an example for those who think they can get away with this type of behavior.