While graffiti traditionally comes in expletives and artistic drawings, it has taken a new form around campus. For the past few weeks, students walking around campus have noticed sayings written in chalk on building exteriors such as Dougherty Hall, Mendel Hall, the Oreo and the Connelly Center.

Some students, faculty and staff consider the chalk sayings as graffiti, and others refer to it as thought provoking.

Sophomore Erin Lynch said, “Some people may think that the phrases found around campus are poetic and thought provoking, but I think someone just wants to earn the title of ‘Chalk Monster.'”

Sophomore Caitlin Fennessey agreed, saying, “I would rather the person choose to express him or herself in a different manner. It’s graffiti and it’s inappropriate.”

On the other hand, graduate student Olivia Martel voiced, “These thoughts that are posted around campus always make me stop and think. And really, isn’t that why we’re here?”

However, the Department of Public Safety is not investigating the matter. Senior Investigator James Conway commented, “We can’t do anything until someone sends in a complaint.”

The student handbook, also known as the Blue Book, states in its policy section, “Intentionally, recklessly…destroying, defacing or tampering with University property are all prohibited. Such behavior is likely to result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension, loss of campus residency, required community service, fines and or responsibility for restitution.” If the person is caught, Dean of Students Paul Pugh said that the actions of these persons could be categorized as destruction of property or vandalism. In the worst scenario, the persons can be suspended from the University.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Facilities Management, John Gallen, said, “We are power washing the campus for upcoming Candidate’s Weekend.”

He continued, “It really irritates the devil out of me…there should be a reward for catching these persons.” Gallen suggested, “Maybe an incentive like free room and board for a semester would help students to step up to the plate.”

Gallen estimated said that last year’s costs for picking up litter and fixing vandalism approached a quarter million dollars.