University takes steps to create safer campus environment | News

TROY — Based largely on student suggestion through a town-hall meeting, Troy University officials are taking steps to increase safety on its Troy Campus.

More than 400 students met with officials in Sartain Hall on Monday to discuss two sexual assaults that occurred off campus, and one armed robbery that occurred on campus in the past week. The meeting was organized by the Student Government Association and led by SGA President Darreyel Laster.

“There were many good comments and suggestions shared at the meeting yesterday, and we have already put into place many of the safety measures the students suggested,” said Herbert Reeves, Dean of Student Services.

Among those improvements is the installation of additional lighting in some areas in campus and the extension of the Trojan Shuttle service’s night operation to seven days a week, from 7 p.m. until midnight – meaning shuttles are now available to TROY students Friday-Sunday, rather than just on weekdays.

The Shuttle service, which runs both regular routes and is available on request to students, provides an additional method of safe transportation to and from campus, Dean Reeves said.

Also, additional police officers and patrols by University police have been added both on campus and to areas where students live off campus, in cooperation with the Troy Police Department.

Female students can also participate in a self-defense course, Rape Aggression Defense – or RAD – through the University’s Sexual Assault and Violence Education Program, and counseling services are available to any students who may wish to speak with a counselor. This month, S.A.V.E. is sponsoring Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

“We continue to stress to students, faculty and staff that while the safety and security of the campus and other areas in Troy will be enhanced, everyone needs to take this on as a personal responsibility,” Dean Reeves said.

The University is continuing an active communication program with students sharing not only updates in safety improvements but also tips on personal safety.

TROY also operates several systems designed to immediately alert students, faculty and staff to specific threats on campus through its “SOS” system that employs text messaging, voice telephone calls and email to convey emergency information. Television monitors in buildings on campus can also be accessed to pass along emergency information.

“We want our students to be safe, and to look after themselves and their fellow students,” Dean Reeves said. “Together we can all make Troy University the safest it can possibly be.”

Information Source: TROY University