Recent assaults and other crimes south of Wichita State’s campus have led President John Bardo to direct the formation of a task force called “Enough is Enough” to focus on creating safe, economically vibrant neighborhoods near campus.

Vice President and General Counsel Ted Ayres has been asked to lead the task force.

“The president and I agree that these issues are of significant concern for the future of WSU and the surrounding area,” said Ayres. “We are part of the neighborhoods that surround us, and the future of these neighborhoods and Wichita State are inextricably linked. To the extent that we can collaborate efforts to stimulate positive changes, I am honored to be asked to serve in such an important endeavor. I believe it is a real opportunity for us to make a difference.

“Ted’s extensive knowledge of the campus and the community, and his dedication to Wichita State, make him the ideal person to take the lead in marshaling campus resources to address safety issues in the neighborhoods surrounding campus, especially in the Fairmount Park neighborhood,” said Bardo.

The task force will likely include representatives from the neighborhood, university and local government.

“We all felt the horror a few weeks ago when Letitia Davis was brutally assaulted in Fairmount Park and later died from her injuries,” said Bardo. “We don’t live in a bubble at Wichita State. Our success and future are tied in every way to the success of the surrounding area. We know we have the expertise and capacity on this campus to help. It is time to turn those feelings into action.

“Yes, we live in the largest city in the state, and yes, crime will happen. But, enough is enough,” said Bardo. “We can and will do more.”

Wichita State will continue to work closely with the Wichita Police Department and city officials on safety issues south of campus. WSU has increased the visibility of University Police Department patrols on university property south of campus.

The president of the Fairmount Neighborhood Association, Darryl Carrington, has deep ties to WSU, both as a WSU Physical Plant employee and student in the College of Health Professions. Many WSU faculty, staff, students and alumni live in the neighborhood.

“The early development of the Fairmount neighborhood parallels the founding of Fairmount College, which became Wichita State University,” said Carrington. “The neighborhood and WSU share the same DNA. We are mutually dependent, and I agree with President Bardo that enough is enough. Our residents look forward to working with WSU on these issues.”

According to Bardo, the university wants to partner with the neighborhood association, city government, Ministerial League and all other people of good will who care about these issues.

“The university doesn’t want to be in charge, but we want to offer the expertise of our faculty and staff, and the energy of those committed to help in all the ways we can,” said Bardo.