Campus & Community / Magazine Feature

DU reviewing security measures, exploring new technologies

University of Denver officials are reviewing existing security measures in the wake of the Virginia Tech tragedy, continually looking for new ways to incorporate technology and keep DU a safe place to learn.

University Provost Gregg Kvistad stresses that campus safety never takes a back seat, with the school taking multiple approaches in reviewing and enhancing security.

“Chancellor Coombe and I want to reassure the campus community that the safety of everyone at the University is a top priority at all times,” Kvistad said in a message to students, faculty and staff this week. “DU has an active program for constantly evaluating best practices for ensuring safety and communicating promptly in the event that an incident occurs on campus.”

Among measures already in place or under review is the University’s Critical Incident Management Plan, which outlines how the University would respond in crisis situations. It is frequently reviewed and updated.

DU also maintains a strong relationship with the Denver Police Department and its District 3 headquarters, located just a block from campus. The Department’s SWAT operations center is also located nearby, ensuring swift response to any perceived threat.

District 3 Commander Tracie Keesee, a DU PhD candidate, says her office has an excellent relationship and is in regular contact with Campus Safety.

The University’s ongoing safety training programs for students, faculty and staff are being upgraded to include specific information about campus emergencies, and DU continues to aggressively evaluate new technologies that would speed critical communications to students.

Campus Safety operates an emergency dispatch center around the clock, and nearly 90 emergency telephones around campus connect directly to a dispatcher. Officers patrol the campus 24 hours a day in marked vehicles, on foot and by bicycle.

The DU Health and Counseling Center can be reached weekdays at 303-871-2205 or after hours through Campus Safety at 303-871-3000. For safety tips visit the Campus Safety Web site at www.du.edu/campus-safety.

CAMPUS EVENTS

Prevention & Education Workshop: “Recognizing and Responding to Potential Violence”
Thursday, April 26, 12-1:30 p.m. (Law School Room 165)
Monday, April 30, 6:30-8 p.m. (Sturm Room 234)
Workshops will both cover the same information. No need to attend both. Open to all DU students, faculty, & staff.
RSVP to Katie.Dunker@du.edu.

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