SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – Officials are investigating an overnight vandalism at Savannah State University.
Statements like “Art is free,” “Save the arts” and “Art is love” were spray painted in blue on Hill Hall.
The building houses the president, admissions, bursar and fiscal affairs offices. It’s also said to be the oldest and only registered historical structure on campus.
This comes after hundreds of students marched around campus on Monday worried the administration may cut the performing arts program after a yearly comprehensive review of all university programs.
In a statement to News 3, Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander said:
“While the institution understands and shares everyone’s passion for the arts as well as First Amendment rights to free speech, defacing a historic building on our campus is an inappropriate expression of that passion. Those responsible for this act will be pursued, identified and appropriate action will be taken.”
Alexander said the review process began last week and results will be shared once completed. She clarified that there have been no recommendations or decisions made on programs at this time.
“As a community of caring and dedicated people, we have much work to do in spite of our differences and challenging obstacles,” Alexander stated. “I ask that we stand together as the SSU Tiger family and condemn these horrific actions. I ask that we pray for our beloved community and reaffirm our commitment to Savannah State University as students, faculty, staff, and administrators.”