Creating a Safer and More Secure University
This is a new key initiative beginning with this strategic planning cycle. The University has historically been focused on the issues of safety and security. F&B leads much of the planning of these activities through various organizational units (University Police, Physical Plant, Risk Management, Environmental Health & Safety, Occupational Medicine), collaborates with other University organizations (University Health Services, Counseling and Psychological Services, Commonwealth Campuses, etc.), and leads Penn State’s Emergency Management Group. In the wake of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, Virginia Tech, and other tragic events, the feedback from F&B employees and constituents indicates that a sharp spotlight on this set of natural and manmade threats is appropriate over the timeline of this strategic plan. In addition, there is a continuing need to place emphasis on safety to reduce the risk to University employees and visitors.
Vision
The Creating a Safer and More Secure University Key Initiative is intended to ensure that Penn State students, faculty, staff, and visitors can pursue higher education and enjoy special events in a safe and secure manner.
The key initiative will identify and implement proactive strategies designed to create a safer and more secure environment for all members of the University community. Working with our Emergency Management Group, and other units whose charge includes such activities, this team will seek ways to reduce the risks of emergencies. At the same time it will plan accordingly so the University can respond effectively and limit damage. In addition the initiative will work to promote safety on all University campuses.
Goals
- Support all campuses on emergency planning and management under the direction of the Emergency Management Group. For example, campuses should have effective emergency management plans and business continuity plans. In the event of an emergency, appropriate mechanisms need to be in place to maintain effective communications between central offices and the campus. This goal will also include an emphasis on training and testing of plans to ensure that those responsible to respond in an emergency are well prepared.
- Encourage a culture of safety and awareness with various groups in the University community to prevent crime. This includes programs and training for staff, students, and faculty. In addition, the team would work to foster strong working relationships with local community agencies and bodies charged with similar responsibilities. It could also include a review of services needed to assure the safety of the University community. Also, the team could include a review of security staffing and authority at all campuses.
- Implement and promote safety programs and improve the safety of working conditions across the University.
- Enhance our already high standards for physical security throughout our physical plant—such as safely-lit pathways, work sites, secure building access systems—and develop a plan for ultimately implementing the enhancements across Penn State.
Metrics and Timeline
An initial deliverable of the key initiative team will be the development of a detailed set of
activities, expected timelines, future deliverables, and metrics. The team will be asked to provide this initial roadmap by February 1, 2009.
Measurements that may be relevant and refined with experience can include:
- Percentage of campus buildings that have the agreed upon standard access system installed.
- Number of programs designed to provide safety and security awareness and preparedness, along with participation statistics.
- Central database with information and updates on each campus’ emergency plans and continuity plans.
- Benchmarking against existing standards and recommendations from federal or state entities that oversee emergency management planning and response.
Key Initiative Manager
Ford Stryker — Office of Physical Plant
814-865-4402 - hfs2@psu.edu
Dr. Mark Bates — Occupational Medicine - mxb20@psu.edu
Philip Burlingame — Student Affairs - pvb7@psu.edu
Maurine Claver — Office of Physical Plant - mgc3@psu.edu
Chris Hurley — Auxiliary & Business Services - cmh1@psu.edu
Gary Langsdale — Office of Risk Management - gwl3@psu.edu
Kate Lumley-Sapanski — Office of Physical Plant - kxl3@psu.edu
Clifford Lutz — University Police - cel3@psu.edu
Phillip Melnick — Office of Physical Plant - prm1@psu.edu
Paul Peworchik — ITS - pjp@psu.edu
Steve Shelow — University Police - sps8@psu.edu
Ron Swope — Penn State Mont Alto - rxs132@psu.edu
Robert Waldhuber — Office of Physical Plant - rmw22@psu.edu
