Members hear campus improvements

By Paige Zorniger

Collegian Reporter

While many students were enjoying the snow cones and soft pretzels from RCSGA's pre-homecoming tailgate in the Heilman Dining Center last night, RCSGA members met to discuss several important items.

First, three students from the Theatre Department's Production Studies III class stopped by to ask for financial support. This is the final production for theatre majors, who start from scratch picking a production, properly funding it, successfully advertising it and, finally, performing the show.

They have chosen to perform "The Pillowman" by Martin McDonagh, which was published in 2003. Every year, students are challenged to chose a play that challenges some cultural topic. "The Pillowman" examines the nature of art and how it is used as "both a tool and a weapon." Leaders of the production hope that it will spark conversations on campus about topics that would otherwise not be discussed.

The show will debut Feb. 12 to 15, 2009, at Cousin's Studio Theater. Auditions are open to all University of Richmond students.

Last week, RCSGA members attended another meeting regarding the Strategic Plan as the committee attempts to create a second draft. Similarly, they met with the interior designers behind the renovations of the Commons. After the designer's initial presentation of the plans to the WCGA and the RCSGA, there was a lot of constructive and slightly negative feedback regarding the origial drafts. However, a second set of plans seems to have left students more confident about the renovations.

Suggestions are being made to put in place better lighting and barriers on Boatwright Drive. As one of the main entrances to campus, many feel that this would be an imperative safety measure. Plans to go to the Richmond City Council proposing this idea are in the works.

Next Thursday, Oct. 30, is the Senior Halloween Social which will be held at Element Lounge. Buses will be transporting students to the event which will be held from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Costumes are extremely encouraged.

Also, next Wednesday, Oct. 29, is the tenth anniversary celebration of the Whitehurst building. Celebrations will begin in Whitehurst at 7 p.m.

Freshman Richmond College Chair Jerry Giordano received 17 applications for the Freshman Cabinet.

Richmond College president Matt Whitaker encouraged all of the RCSGA members, as well as all students of the university, not to forget to dress up in spirited attire on Friday in anticipation of Saturday's big game against Georgetown.