Traditional student bodies are changing to a population of diverse cultures. This has a significant impact on how campus security is approached. Cultural sensitivity, awareness and a proactive approach are key to a campus security plan. More and more campus security officers are collaborating with schools as promoters of the school’s culture.

Age diversity is also a factor is how campus security is being handled. With young students mixing with older students seeking a better life through adult education, their first contact at a school is usually a security officer. The responsibility as an ambassador representing the school requires a strong but welcoming presence. Campus environment should be safe and secure, but also welcoming.

Common Security Issues

• Drug and Alcohol abuse – Drug and alcohol abuse is an ever-present problem and catalyst to violence.
• Signs of abuse – Physical and emotional abuse is a growing threat on college campuses.
• Gender Discrimination – As schools become more diverse, promoting acceptance isn’t just the expectation – it is the law.
• Cultural Diversity – Most colleges and universities serve a widely diverse population.
• Workplace Violence on Campus – Active shooter situations on campuses are widely publicized and feared. Any violence is clearly too much, and today’s colleges and universities prepare by engaging in effective crisis planning.

Specialized Skill Sets

It takes a continuous commitment to building off this understanding with training and so that each security officer understands how to conduct themselves on campus. Awareness, sensitivity, an appreciation for the campus environment and a commitment to supporting the campus’s culture and policies are all requirements.