Tufts Public Safety Progress Update – Fall 2023
I am writing today to share some updates from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) as we continue to implement recommendations made by the Campus Safety and Policing working group and other improvements to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of our campus communities.
Before describing our progress on this work, I want to call your attention to a university-wide message I sent on October 20 about current concerns stemming from the Israel-Hamas war and additional security precautions we are taking. This includes increased foot and cruiser patrols and enhanced presence at campus events. In addition to these measures, there is information available online about how to protect yourself against doxxing and other support resources for faculty, staff, and students. If you are personally threatened or feel unsafe, please contact TUPD immediately at 617-627-3030.
Campus Security Officers (CSOs) on the Medford/Somerville Campus
Over the summer, we added new CSOs on the Medford/Somerville campus to aid with lockouts, provide safety escorts, support First Responders, and respond to door alarms. CSOs address community needs when a patrol officer is not required. More information regarding CSOs is available on the TUPD website.
Advisory Board
The Public Safety Advisory Board has been reinstated with student, faculty, and staff representatives from all four campuses. The board works with DPS toward the goal of helping every member of the Tufts community feel comfortable and safe on campus and able to focus on achieving their goals. Board members will work together to inform the university’s public safety policies and procedures as part of Tufts’ commitment to equity and justice.
Community Survey
In November, DPS will launch a community survey distributed by the Office of Institutional Research. We encourage the Tufts community to share their opinions and provide us with feedback as we continue to listen, learn, and grow as a department. The survey is expected to be available from November 13 to December 1 and information will be accessible on the Department of Public Safety website. We will share a link to the survey when it is available.
Pepper the Comfort Dog
Finally, we are thrilled to announce that Pepper is expected to become a full-time member of DPS by November. She will be present on the Medford/Somerville campus whenever her handler, Officer Rob Moschella, is on shift. The pair uses a personalized cruiser for easy identification and will respond to calls for support together. A form will be available on the TUPD website in the coming weeks to request the presence of Pepper and Rob at events.
While DPS has made significant progress in many areas, there is always more work to be done. To learn about what is new and upcoming, please visit our Progress Dashboard. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to reach out to publicsafety-inquiries@elist.tufts.edu. You can also stay updated by following us on Instagram and visiting publicsafety.tufts.edu.