Introduction of Safety Ambassadors at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
In early 2023, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) took a significant step towards enhancing campus safety by introducing an unarmed safety ambassador unit. This initiative provides supplemental safety services and aims to create a more secure and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. The safety ambassadors have quickly integrated into the campus community, managing over 5,800 calls for service across both campuses, including self-initiated tasks.
The scope of services provided by the safety ambassadors is extensive. They handle various types of calls, from mental health checks and assisting drivers with automobile issues to picking up lost property and providing nonemergency transport for patients. They also support the police by staffing major events, ensuring all activities run smoothly and safely. This diverse range of services enhances the overall campus experience by addressing safety and logistical needs in a timely and efficient manner.
Training and Operations
Safety ambassadors undergo comprehensive training to equip them with essential skills. This includes training on de-escalation of violence, mental health first aid, crisis intervention, traffic direction, using police radios, and administering CPR and first aid. Their preparedness enables them to handle a variety of situations deftly, ensuring the safety and well-being of the campus community.
The operational hours of the safety ambassadors are from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. This schedule ensures that their presence is felt throughout the campus during key hours, providing consistent support and reassurance to students and staff. Their availability across the Monroe Park and MCV campuses means that help is never far away, fostering a sense of security and reliability.
Positive Reception and National Impact
The introduction of the safety ambassadors has been met with widespread approval. Students and staff have expressed their appreciation for being able to address nonemergency situations without the need to interact with a sworn police officer. This approach not only reduces the burden on law enforcement but also enhances the sense of approachability and comfort within the campus community.
The success of VCU’s safety ambassador program has not gone unnoticed and is becoming a national model for alternate types of public safety personnel in higher education. The program’s focus on providing multiple avenues for safety and well-being, especially in response to mental health crises, has set a precedent for other institutions to follow. The comfort and accessibility offered by the safety ambassadors are driving factors behind the program’s positive reception and its potential for broader implementation.