Hocking College officials are putting more security measures in place on campus to keep students safer. The changes come after a report of a rape in a dorm room on campus this semester.
The Athens County Prosecutor is currently investigating the woman's claim. Since the allegation students have protested the school's president, calling for more action to keep them safe.
For Natalie Larkins, it’s about a time for a change.
“I still feel a little uneasy, I know that they're taking steps to take care of the issue. As of now I just really want street lights, cause I will not walk alone at dark at all,” Larkins said.
Larkins says she’s been nervous for weeks walking around campus. Some students have started to avoid areas all together.
"I haven't walked during the night in the past probably month since all the events been happening,” former Hocking College student Russell Bagley said.
Reported incidents caused enough concern to prompt the school to look at security on campus. To keep an extra eye on its students the college will install security cameras in each residence. During the day, every front desk will be staffed with student employees and now the only way into a dorm is through the front door.
"At least they're still trying to help out, they know students are not feeling safe on the campus so they're actually being progressive about it you know,” Bagley said.
The school has also improved its bike path at an area of a reported attack also this year.
Students walking home to Sycamore or Summit Hall from class only have one light along the path. Hocking College is working with area property owners to install more. It’s also cut down big trees and shrubbery to open up the path, with hopes it help students feel more safe walking home.
"I know a lot of people who stay at Sycamore and the dorms over there and they feel more safe now that they took down the trees. But there's still no street lights which I think is a big thing that they need,” Larkins said.
Hocking College President, Dr. Betty Young tells 10TV security cameras should be installed in the dorms by next week. The Athens County Prosecutor tells 10TV there is no update in his investigation into the alleged rape on campus.