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By Megan Rutherford
Arizona Daily Wildcat
August 26, 1996
Along with a new environment and new curriculum, students at the Arizona International Campus of the UA are also getting a new sense of security.The AIC site is not like the UA Mall, where visitors can often come and go unnoticed amidst the thousands of people there each day.
Visitors to the University of Arizona Science and Technology Park, where AIC is located, are greeted by a security booth and guards who want to know where they are going and when they are leaving. Gates are lifted to let cars through after they have been checked.
Students and staff at AIC are also required to wear photo identification badges when on campus. Celestino FernÊndez, AIC executive vice president and provost, said this is required so the neighboring companies will know who is who.
Although no problems are expected, FernÊndez said the security guards and identification badges are something that came with the purchase of the building.
"We are trying to work with our neighbors," he said.
IBM Corp. originally built the complex of buildings, which also houses IBM, Microsoft Inc. and Hughes Missile Systems Co.
"Our neighbors have said they're really excited about the school," FernÊndez said.
AIC student Amanda Thacker said the security guards are very friendly and helpful.
"I know my car is safe, and I know I am safe," she said.
Thacker said the security has not caused her any problems and that she feels very important because the guards are there.
"There is nothing to worry about if you see a stranger," she said.
FernÊndez said the security gate is more of a help to visitors of the campus than a hassle. Guards direct visitors and give out maps, he said.
"They are intended to be helpful," he said.
FernÊndez said the security is not meant to be a deterrent for people wishing to visit the campus. He also said the students are still provided a relaxed atmosphere.
"They can sit on the lawn and use the cafeteria," FernÊndez said.
He said the security also provides a good environment. Reactions from parents and students have all been positive, he said.
He compared this to the main campus' situation where "people who really have no business coming on campus are on campus."
If there were any problems at the campus, the Pima County Sheriff's Department would respond, since AIC is outside the city limits.
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