Art Institutue of Pittsburgh

==Insights==
===LTE: Our stand on graffiti===
:January 2009
Regarding the Dec. 14, 2008 story "Art Students Charged with 'Tagging' City with Graffiti": We believe that it is time to express The Art Institute of Pittsburgh's position on graffiti.
The college does not condone the practice of property defacement and advises against the dangers of criminal graffiti. We support the needs of law enforcement officials at all times and have invited Port Authority staff to conduct awareness sessions within the college. Our administration participates in task forces as a measure of expressing responsibility for our treasured community assets.
Recently, a memo was distributed to approximately 3,000 current students communicating the implications of a felony conviction. Students were informed of the consequences and reminded of college policy.
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is comprised of talented people who dedicate time and talent to projects on every scale. Collectively, we've spent 90 years answering the call of community organizations and, above all, preparing thousands of graduates for successful careers. We extend time, talent and financial support to a variety of public art and community projects every year -- not only because such opportunities underscore our mission for students but also because we are invested in our community and our neighbors.
Over the past decade, approximately 10,000 students graduated from The Art Institute and became responsible and productive professionals. In contrast, perhaps a dozen have been convicted of graffiti-related crimes. Further, of the many graffiti charges that occur, many perpetrators are not affiliated with the college in any way.
We believe it is important to share with residents of the region our sense of obligation toward helping the city of Pittsburgh achieve a community that rejects criminal vandalism.
George Pry, President The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Downtown
category:schools