Yard signs for organizational use, such as churches or clubs, are no longer allowed on campus.
These yard signs were taken down and currently lay in the Student Government Association office.
The Lion's Roar/Megan McCormick
A new policy regarding the use of yard signs for organizational advertisement on campus has been put in place. As of January 5, 2016, organizations are prohibited to place yard signs around campus. However, those promoting major events, such as commencement, orientation and athletics are allowed.
The policy prohibiting yard signs was revised because of the abuse regarding the privilege. Before, organizations were allowed to place yard signs around campus under the assumption that the yard signs would be removed after a few days.
“However, some organizations wouldn’t remove the signs,” said Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Jim McHodgkins. “When the signs weren’t taken down after so many days, or weeks, our office would go to get them. The signs made our campus look unsightly.”
Even though yards signs are forbidden, the use of flyers, posters, notices and other advertisements are still allowed. For those interested, a copy of the display must be sent to and approved by Student Affairs in Room 2409 of the Student Union.
In addition to this, posting signs on anything other than bulletin boards is banned; this includes doors, windows, hallways, poles, cars and trees. Also, an organization must get permission from the respective building coordinator before posting inside the building.
Once signs are approved, they will be allowed to be posted 2 days before the event and must be taken down the day following the event. Posted signs are allowed to be taken down by building coordinators, the Physical Plant or by the University Police.
“Even though the new policy will upset some people, social media is a big thing in this era,” said McHodgkins. “Yard signs used to be a big thing, but they aren’t a big deal anymore. Many students don’t even read them.”
In the past, yard signs were used for many different events, including churches advertising free lunches or fraternity and sororities recruiting new members. However, with the office of Student Affairs now enforcing the new rule, organizations must find new ways to supply the campus with upcoming events or information.
“I encourage organizations to use the social media, to get their members out there on campus to recruit new people to join or to get creative and get new ideas,” said McHodgkins.
In addition to posting signs, organizations are always encouraged to send in organizational news to “The Lion’s Roar.” Organizational news is due the Friday before the upcoming issue date by 10 a.m. The news must meet the 150 word maximum to be published. The news can be submitted via “The Lion’s Roar” website or Facebook page.
For more information regarding the new sign policies and other updated policies, visit the Student Affairs’ page on selu.edu.