Students Express Concerns with Outsourcing

In light of a struggling economy, Saint Anselm College has leapt into action, establishing a number of committees focused on reviewing its efficiency. The goal of these committees is not simply to look at matters with regard to dollars and cents, but rather to review the methods by which the college operates in light of its mission. Ultimately, the college is looking at ways to maximize the use of current funding, and increase revenue in an effort to meet the needs of the community. Among the eight established committees are two exploring the current practices of both Dining Services and the custodial services provided by Physical Plant.While committees were established late last summer, and the process was set in motion as the academic year began, it is only in recent weeks that a majority of students became aware of the college's research of outsourcing options. Thus far, the reaction of students has been a negative one.

"I believe that outsourcing such services would prove detrimental to the college's sense of community," Alec Bernard, '12, said, echoing the sentiments of many of his classmates.

The concern of students is centered on two key issues: sense of community and the well-being of the college's current Custodial Services and Dining Services staff.

Students are primarily concerned about the effect outsourcing could have on the college's sense of community, as well as issues of quality.

"I think that the Physical Plant staff plays a huge role here on our campus," Ashley Pratte, '11, said. "I think the beauty and uniqueness of our campus can most definitely be attributed to the wonderful work and dedication of the physical plant staff. They complete their work efficiently and always with kindness and careful consideration."

Connor O'Brien, '10, echoed Pratte's thoughts stating, "Whether it is the custodian in one of our residence halls, the staff in the Cushing Center, or elsewhere, Physical Plant workers seek to enhance student life and develop real relationships with students."

The negative outcry of the college's outsourcing investigation has not been limited to students alone, and has been heard from many student organizations.

The Student Government Association has recognized the college's actions and passed a resolution against outsourcing, sponsored by Senator John McDermott '11.

The resolution is focused on the well being of the colleges current staff, and states that that in the opinion of Student Government, "all present benefits for employees of both Physical Plant and Dining Services should be preserved, whether or not outsourcing occurs."

The cries of students have not gone unheard however, and the college committees and administrators have stressed that the actions taken thus far have been purely exploratory and no decisions have been made.

The chair of the custodial services outsourcing committee, Adam Albina, says the college has the best interests of the students and the community at heart. Albina is director of information technology.

The committee submitted a proposal to senior administrators outlining outsourcing options after requesting from bids from outside companies. A bid was also provided by the college's own Physical Plant department, taking into consideration the cost and quality of service they could provide.

The proposal stressed the college's unwillingness to sacrifice quality of service, the importance of community on campus, and the value of the college's current staff.

Each company that submitted a proposal was given a tour of the campus. Representatives from each company left in awe of the cleanliness maintained by the current staff, Albina said.

"When asked by these companies if the college was willing to sacrifice this quality, the answer was a firm no," he said.

Both Albina, and Executive Vice President of the College Dr. Suzanne K. Mellon, Ph.D. , R.N. , stress that the "focus is on mission, efficiency and culture."

The Custodial Services and Dining Services committees will submit a proposal to Mellon by mid-December outlining their recommendation, based on proposals of each company. Following these recommendations, Mellon and other college administrators will conduct their own "careful and deliberate" investigation, she said.