Meet the Campus Security & Public Safety Department
By: Brian Best
The Gonzaga University Campus Security and Public Safety (CSPS) department consists of 11 patrol officers. Our office includes three supervisors, a Director, an Associate Director, a Crime Prevention and Education Officer, a Parking Enforcement Officer, a Parking and Office Coordinator, a Dispatch Center and 6 Communication Officers. This team provides 24/7 coverage for our campus community every day of the year. We are located in the lower level of Welch Hall, north of the new Hemmingson Center.
Our department provides a number of services to the Gonzaga community. We utilize our vehicles, mountain bikes, and an extensive camera system to maximize the efficiency of our security patrols. We also provide an escort service. Those utilizing this service are usually injured and need help getting to class and back home. The University also works with the Gonzaga Student Body Association to offer a “safe ride” with a local taxi company. This no-cost ride can get you home from a potentially unsafe or compromising situation.
Our Security vehicles are equipped with an AED and first aid supplies, along with water rescue items. We have the ability to jumpstart a vehicle with a dead battery on cold winter mornings. We are the reporting authority for crime victims on campus and will respond to and document criminal activity.
Our campus is located within walking distance of downtown Spokane, the Spokane River and the Logan neighborhood. The Logan neighborhood has seen a decrease in the number of reported crimes in the past few years. This is largely due to the patrol and proactive efforts in the neighborhood. We have the privilege of having one of the city’s COPS substations on our campus. We work closely with the Neighborhood Conditions Officers to proactively patrol the areas where our students reside. As a department, we visit with students living off campus to give safety tips to aid in the prevention of the students becoming victims of a crime. Although we are a strong patrol force, we encourage others to help in keeping everyone safe on and around campus and to call us when there are concerns. A reminder for all is to keep valuables locked up and put away, out of sight. This applies to vehicles, Residence Halls, and off-campus housing. Items that are left visible or unlocked are vulnerable to theft.
We are working on security improvements. Over the summer, we are assessing the landscaping and natural pathways. We are adding additional lighting where it has been identified as needed. We will be adding more cameras to the campus to assist with the safety of students, staff and visitors.
Be watching for our article in July regarding safety tips for the start of the school year and more information about move-in weekend.
For updates and general information you can visit our website at: Campus Security and Public Safety or by accessing the Gonzaga University website. Our Blog site is: Campus Security Blog and can also be accessed from the Gonzaga University website. You can also follow us on Facebook.
Brian Best, Crime Prevention and Education Officer, Campus Security and Public Safety