Don’t Dowt it

Changes at the Dow Center: scan-dalous

May 20, 2008
Andrea Hailey
Staff Reporter

If you’ve been to the Dow Center lately for a workout, class, meeting or other reason, you have probably noticed some changes.

Since director Melissa Walton arrived at Albion last spring, student ID cards have been required to check out athletic equipment, the weight room has been staffed (for liability reasons) and a scanning system has been added to the front desk.

The scanning system was implemented for two reasons: to improve the building’s security and to record the number of people who make use of it.

“Now we can accurately determine the following: how many people enter the Dow on any given week, day and even hour,” Walton said. “We can also determine the male/female ratio and staff/student ratio. This data will give us information on what types of programs we should be implementing to help out our population.”

Some student workers at the Dow find that the scanning system makes their job easier, even if, paradoxically, it does mean more work.

“The scanner is a good idea because it helps us let in only students and Dow members,” said Whitney Couch, Troy junior. “I can see how it is annoying to some people, but it really is beneficial. Now we don’t have to try to figure out who doesn’t belong here. “

Many Albion College students are annoyed by the hassle of presenting their ID card or signing in if they have forgotten it.

“I have no reason to carry my keys with me all day, and the people that work do not even pay attention,” said Kyle Robinson, Grand Ledge junior. “I sign my name with names like ‘Dusty Bottoms.’”

Now that Walton has the security changes out of the way, she plans on making more student-friendly changes. She is working on creating more fitness programs for students, including a female weight-training program and a walking program, which will involve participants using a heart-rate monitor to see how fast they need to walk to have an effective workout.

If you’re in the mood for a good workout and want to check out the new improvements, the Dow is the place to go. Just don’t forget your ID.