By Melissa Boyd (Whetstone Staff Writer)

Many students said they were shocked when they heard the news that Charles Coursey, a Wesley College assistant men’s basketball coach, had been arrested for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old high school student.

After expressing shock, several wondered why they hadn’t been informed.

“Sure, it’s not our business to know what they [staff members] do on their own time,” said freshman Jazzelle-Grace Taghap. “But it should have been told since it could alter the way we feel about some professors if a student gets a bit too close with a professor or a coach. He was part of the Wesley staff and the Wesley community should be informed.”

Marissa Richardson, a transfer freshman, said she thinks she would feel more affected if she were a sports player.

“I don’t work in the sports center, but if I did, and I hadn’t been told, I would have been upset.”

SGA student officials also said they were not happy with the way the college is handling the situation.

“Whenever anything happens to faculty or staff, legally or when they get into trouble, the school has a responsibility to update everyone who works at the college, including the students,” said Bryan Zarou, SGA vice president. “There should have been an email sent out stating what is happening with someone who is being charged with these crimes.”

SGA president Tanner Polce agreed.

“Everything should be open and transparent,” Polce said. “I think a statement on his current employment and affiliation with the institution should be issued to everyone.”

Taghap said students develop bonds with their professors and coaches, and the adult should always know their boundaries.

“Sometimes it may go too far,” she said. “I don’t think any student should have a relationship with any professor or coach unless it’s a relationship where the student is only asking for advice in everyday situations.”

Freshmen cousins Rutdenisse Almonte and Elizabeth Almonte think they have a right to know.

“The college should send emails to inform about everything that happens,” Rutdenisse said. “I’m in shock because I didn’t know. I’m glad he got arrested.”

She said she was upset.

“He’s a staff member,” she said. “He should respect the law. He should be an example for us. If you’re a teacher, you have responsibilities.”

Elizabeth agreed.

“A 17-year-old,” she said. “He can find someone his own age. He could be her father.”

Elizabeth said that even if the 17-year-old student wanted the relationship with Coursey, he was still out of line.

“Even if a student wants it, she’s too young to know what she wants,” she said.