Submitted by John Riggs, dean of students
I appreciate that the editor’s letter is an opinion but I believe that all written opinions should be supported by facts. The opinion expressed by the Editor “Dorm flood victims seek assistance from administrators” consists of some misleading comments and assumptions.
In rebuttal to the letter, here are the facts:
As the repairs in each room are completed, students are contacted personally by housing staff and offered assistance in moving. Several students have been assisted with their moves while others have declined help.
The OCU Housing Contract specifically addresses university liability when personal belongings are damaged, indicating that each student must provide their own insurance to protect their possessions. In spite of this, the thirteen students who have submitted requests have or will be compensated. Ten students have been reimbursed; the remaining three requests are being processed pending documentation. Contrary to the insinuation that promises are not being kept, the university has gone above and beyond to respond to our residents with understanding and compassion through these difficult times.
The OCU Benevolent Fund has set aside monies to assist residence life with reimbursements. These funds will be released upon request from residence life after all claims have been processed. Students are not making their claims directly to the Benevolent Fund, but instead through the Dean of Students’ office.
It is in the best interest of the campus community as well as the Campus Staff to make more of an effort to report the facts. News reporting should not create controversy but should instead address the issues from an objective point of view, therefore becoming a reliable source of information for the community.
Sincerely,
John Riggs
Dean of Students
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