In the wake of the 2014 riots, the communities needed to come together and resolve this conflict. After 3 years, the Pumpkin Festival returned in 2017 despite the rain the festival went off without a hitch. The only way that this could have been possible is both communities came together
What progress have you seen the communities of both Keene State and the city of Keene have made since 2014?
“There has been incredible progress made by the city and by the college because of the events of 2014. The city established the College City Commission, a task force that is charged with facilitating long range planning and recommendations to the college and the City on issues of mutual concern. In other words, it is a group made up of residents, representatives from the city, and representatives from the college, and college students, who work together to discuss issues between the two bodies in Keene and then come up with solutions that are satisfactory to both. Non-contentious conversations are now being held in anticipation of tough issues, instead of battles being fought after a bad experience.”
“Keene State College now has an extensive page on the website dedicated to living off-campus. Included are some key bits of information: the state and local laws (regarding alcohol, noise, litter, and parties), neighborhood etiquette recommendations, and home safety advice. College students now attend a mandatory off-campus housing meeting prior to being allowed to move into the community. Proactive measures like these help educate young people to help them grow into respectful neighbors, instead of trying to punish rowdy students after they have made poor decisions.”