I was just reading on the Lynn University Portal an alert from security alerting students of a robbery that took place a few blocks from our campus. No Lynn students were involved, and it was a petty crime, however security still alerted students of the crime, telling them to be aware of their surroundings, and informing them of what safety precautions can be taken, as well as what to do if they feel anxious. The alert reminded students that if at any time they would like to be escorted to their cars, Lynn security (which some are located on golf carts throughout the campus) is always willing to give you a ride to your vehicle, from your vehicle, or where ever you need to go on campus. They also stated the security telephone number. The alert also reminded students of the emergency booths located throughout the campus, and also of SafeRide. Safe ride is such a novel idea. Basically, we have Lynn Vans that operate from the evenings to early hours of the morning, that are driven by Lynn Security. The vans provide a safe ride back to campus within a certain proximity (10 miles from campus). Many students use this facility, some if they are not comfortable driving home, others get a taxi out to where they’re going with a group of friends, and call safe ride when they’re ready to come home to campus. Students are not reported or documented from being on campus, it’s a no questions asked free service.

Reading this alert just reminded me of why I love Lynn so much. Where most universities would probably hush up a crime near the campus to prevent negative publicity, Lynn handles these matters proactively. Lynn takes the precautions to inform students to take precautions and tells the us what to do in case of an emergency. Although it was unnecessary to inform students of a petty crime (a wallet was stolen) off campus, it was the right thing to do. Students also develop friendships with security on campus. They aren’t perceived as ‘policemen’ and ‘police women’ on campus, but rather someone you can rely on, someone you can trust. They’re all really friendly. Every morning when I drive onto campus, the same two guards are on duty. Lynn students have a sticker which is stuck on the front windshield of their vehicle. Cars with the sticker may pass onto campus, vehicles with out are met by security, who has a list of which guests will be arriving on campus that day, and they assess why this individual is coming on to campus. However, my point is, everyday I wave at the security guards, and everyday they wave back to me… and I’ve noticed that most students wave and greet the students when arriving on campus, and wave goodbye when they leave. If I stood there all day waving to every passing car, I’d be rather grumpy and exhausted by the end of the day. How do you do it, Security? Hats off to your waving efforts! (quick question: do you alternate waving arms, or just use the one?).