Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Table of Contents About Safety & Security................................................................................................. 4 Our Porfolio...................................................................................................................... 4 Our Mission, Vision & Core Values............................................................................ 5 Safety & Security at a Glance....................................................................................... 7 Strategic Priorities............................................................................................................ 8 Advancing Campus Safety.......................................................................................... 9 Technology & Innovation............................................................................................10 Preparedness & Emergency Management...........................................................11 Community Engagement & Partnerships.............................................................12 Compliance & Accountability....................................................................................13 Department Profiles.......................................................................................................15 University Police...........................................................................................................16 Communications Center.............................................................................................18 Emergency Management...........................................................................................20 Security Operations.....................................................................................................22 Deacon One & Security Technology.......................................................................24 Clery.................................................................................................................................26 Campus Safety by the Numbers................................................................................28 Measuring Safety Through Data.............................................................................29 Crime Statistics.............................................................................................................29 Campus Safety by the Numbers................................................................................30 Key Crime Trends.........................................................................................................31 Community Feedback.................................................................................................32 Community Engagement & Accountability..........................................................33 Data-Driven Decision Making...................................................................................33 Community Partnerships.............................................................................................34 Building Safety Through Partnership.....................................................................35 Community Resource Officers.................................................................................35 Deacon Student Patrol................................................................................................35 Rape Aggression Defense (RAD)............................................................................36 Citizen Police Academy..............................................................................................36 Police Advisory Board.................................................................................................36 Community Engagement...........................................................................................37 Professional Collaboration.........................................................................................37 Stronger Together........................................................................................................37 Investing in Our People.................................................................................................38 The Strength Behind Our Success..........................................................................39 Celebrating Our Team.................................................................................................40 Preparing for the Future...............................................................................................41 Campus Growth; Emerging Risks; Recruitment & Workforce; & Strategic Investments......................................................................................... 42-43 2
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Letter from the Chief Members of the Wake Forest University Community, It is my pleasure to share the Wake Forest University Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report. More than a summary of our work, this report offers a comprehensive look at the people, partnerships and programs that work together every day to support a safe, secure and thriving campus community. It reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement as we carry out our shared responsibility of protecting the Wake Forest community. Within these pages, you'll gain a better understanding of the many functions that make up the Safety & Security portfolio— from University Police and Emergency Management to Clery Compliance, Deacon One/Security Technology, Communications, Community Engagement, Security, Event Management and Deacon Student Patrol. You'll also see how data, innovation and collaboration guide our decision-making, highlight our progress over the past two academic years and help prepare us for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Campus safety is not achieved by one department alone. It is the result of strong partnerships among students, faculty, staff, families and community agencies, all working toward a common goal. We are grateful for the trust you place in us, and we remain committed to listening, learning and strengthening those partnerships as we continue to serve the University. I encourage every member of our community to remain engaged in creating a culture of safety by practicing good personal safety habits, reporting suspicious activity and looking out for one another. Prevention, preparedness and shared responsibility remain the foundation of a safe campus. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our work and the dedicated professionals who work every day to ensure Wake Forest remains a place where safety, wellbeing and community go hand in hand.
REGINA LAWSON, B.S. Assistant Vice President and Chief of Police
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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About Safety & Security The Wake Forest University Department of Safety & Security is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to protecting people, supporting the University's mission and fostering a safe, secure and welcoming campus environment. Through a combination of public safety, emergency preparedness, security technology, compliance and community engagement, our teams work together every day to help students, faculty, staff and visitors learn, live and thrive with confidence.
Our Portfolio Safety & Security is comprised of specialized teams that work collaboratively to support the University's comprehensive approach to campus safety.
University Police
Provides 24/7 law enforcement services, emergency response, criminal investigations, crime prevention, communications, records management, training and community policing initiatives.
Security Operations
Delivers security services across campus, coordinates special event planning and staffing, supports accreditation efforts, provides victim support services and advances strategic initiatives that strengthen campus safety.
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Emergency Management
Leads the University's preparedness, response and recovery efforts through planning, training, exercises and coordination of the Emergency Operations Center during major incidents.
Deacon One & Security Technology
Manages the University's physical security infrastructure, including access control, security cameras, alarms, classroom security technology, DEACStations, video analytics and security planning.
Clery Compliance
Ensures institutional compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act through reporting, training, crime analysis and collaboration across the University.
Business, Finance & Operations
Provides operational support through financial management, budgeting, human resources, technology, fleet management, administrative services and oversight of departmental resources.
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Our Mission TO PROMOTE A SAFE, SECURE AND THRIVING CAMPUS COMMUNITY THROUGH OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE AND COLLABORATIVE EFFORT.
Our Vision TO BE NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED AS A LEADER IN CAMPUS SAFETY THROUGH SERVICE, INNOVATION, TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS.
Our Core Values INTEGRITY
We commit to being honest, trustworthy, transparent, and ethical in both our professional and private lives. RESPECT
We bring honor to ourselves and our community by upholding the rights and dignity of others through fair and courteous treatment. ACCOUNTABILITY
We take responsibility for our actions and decisions, owning all outcomes, good or bad, and commit to transparency. COMPASSION
We have a heartfelt motivation to provide kindness, support, and empathy through our service, attitude and actions toward others.
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Safety & Security at a Glance By the Numbers (2023–2025)
17,581
CALLS ANSWERED
2,000+ CARD READERS
464
STUDENTS COMPLETED RAD
5,086
2,000+
CALLS DISPATCHED
CAMERAS MANAGED
14,000
800
DEACON ONE
WORK ORDERS
45+
EMERGENCY AND PREPAREDNESS EXERCISES
CAMPUS SECURITY AUTHORITIES TRAINED
1,000+
SURVEY RESPONDENTS
13
SOFTWARE PLATFORMS MANAGED
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Strategic Priorities
Safety & Secu 2023–2025 Bienni
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Advancing Campus Safety Over the past two academic years, Wake Forest University Safety & Security has remained focused on strengthening campus safety through strategic investments, innovative technologies, operational excellence and meaningful community partnerships. Guided by our mission and informed by evolving risks facing higher education, our work has centered around five strategic priorities that enhance our ability to prevent incidents, respond effectively and support the wellbeing of the Wake Forest community.
Excellence in Policing Our first priority is providing professional, responsive and community-focused public safety services. During the biennium, the department invested in equipment, training and operational improvements that enhance officer safety, improve response capabilities and increase visibility across campus.
HIGHLIGHTS 1
Equipped officers with individual laptops, department-issued cell phones and mobile hotspots to improve field reporting and real-time access to critical systems.
2
Upgraded patrol vehicles with hybrid technology, enhanced safety features and improved emergency lighting.
3
Continued investment in next-generation AXON body-worn cameras and TASER technology to support accountability, transparency and de-escalation.
5
4 Enhanced employee development through standardized Field Training Officer (FTO) and Communications Training Officer (CTO) programs.
Expanded community feedback through the implementation of the PowerEngage citizen satisfaction survey.
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Technology & Innovation As the University continues to grow, technology remains essential to creating a safe and secure campus environment. Significant investments were made to modernize physical security infrastructure, improve access control and strengthen situational awareness.
1
3
5
10
Managed more than 2,000 security cameras and 2,000 access control readers across the University.
Expanded classroom safety technology through new emergency notification buttons and interior locking systems.
Advanced planning for Mobile One, a next-generation mobile credential platform.
2
4
6
Oversaw approximately 14,000 annual Deacon One service requests supporting campus security technology.
Continued deployment of DEACStations to improve emergency communications and campus lighting.
Managed security technology supporting more than $13 million in capital projects.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Preparedness & Emergency Management Preparing for emergencies before they occur remains one of the department's highest priorities. Through planning, training and collaboration, Safety & Security strengthened institutional readiness while expanding partnerships across campus and throughout the region.
HIGHLIGHTS 1
4
Conducted more than 25 emergency preparedness trainings, tabletop exercises and simulations.
Strengthened partnerships with local emergency management agencies, law enforcement and healthcare partners.
2
5
Expanded Wake Alert emergency response training across University departments. Supported planning for major campus events and athletic competitions through comprehensive emergency preparedness exercises.
3
Facilitated executive leadership and Incident Management Team exercises.
6
Expanded departmental capacity with the addition of an Assistant Emergency Services Manager.
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Community Engagement & Partnerships Campus safety is a shared responsibility. Throughout the biennium, Safety & Security continued building meaningful relationships with students, faculty, staff, parents and community partners through proactive outreach, education and engagement.
HIGHLIGHTS 1
3
5
12
Expanded Community Resource Officer engagement throughout residence halls and academic buildings.
Continued the Citizen Police Academy and Deacon Student Patrol programs to increase awareness and understanding of campus safety operations.
2
4
Hosted and participated in numerous campus events, including Move-In, Campus Days, Project Pumpkin, Pizza with Police, Hit the Bricks and Face to Face programs. Expanded self-defense education through the Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program, with more than 460 students completing training during the biennium.
Increased transparency and engagement through community surveys, social media and the implementation of PowerEngage.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Compliance & Accountability Transparency, accountability and professional excellence remain foundational to the department's operations. Throughout the biennium, Safety & Security strengthened compliance programs while maintaining nationally recognized standards and using data to guide continuous improvement.
HIGHLIGHTS 1
Maintained accreditation through the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA).
2
Reviewed 100–150 incident reports daily to ensure Clery Act compliance across the Wake Forest University enterprise.
4
3
Provided annual Clery training for approximately 800 Campus Security Authorities.
5 Collected and analyzed community feedback from more than 1,200 survey participants to inform future initiatives.
Continued investment in policy development, training and evidence-based decision-making to strengthen organizational effectiveness.
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REGINA LAWSON, B.S. Assistant Vice President and Chief of Police
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"Our work extends far beyond emergency response. From preventing and preparing for incidents to leveraging innovative technologies, strengthening partnerships and promoting a culture of shared responsibility, Safety & Security is committed to delivering exceptional service while continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the Wake Forest University community here and abroad."
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Department Profiles
Safety & Security 23–2025 Biennial Report
SSafety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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University Police Overview The Wake Forest University Police Department provides 24/7 law enforcement services dedicated to protecting the campus community through professional policing, emergency response, crime prevention and community engagement. Working in partnership with students, faculty, staff and local agencies, University Police combines proactive policing with innovative technology and a service-oriented approach to support a safe and welcoming campus environment.
AT A GLANCE
16
PATROL OFFICERS
25 Years
AVERAGE OF 25 YEARS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
5,086
CALLS DISPATCHED
EXPERIENCE
17,581 CARD READERS
Community Resource Officers
ASSIGNED ACROSS CAMPUS
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED THROUGH
IACLEA
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Emergency and non-emergency law enforcement response
2
Criminal investigations
3
Community policing and engagement
4
Crime prevention and threat assessment
5
Patrol operations
6
Special event support
7
Evidence, records and crime analysis
8
Officer training and professional development
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Modernized patrol operations through upgraded hybrid patrol vehicles.
University Police will continue investing in officer training, technology and community engagement while adapting to the University's continued growth, evolving safety challenges and increasing service demands.
z Equipped officers with laptops, department-issued mobile phones and mobile hotspots to improve response and field reporting. z Continued investment in AXON body-worn cameras and less-lethal TASER technology. z Expanded standardized Field Training Officer (FTO) program. Launched PowerEngage community satisfaction surveys. z Strengthened Community Resource Officer partnerships throughout residence halls and academic buildings.
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Communications Center Overview The Communications Center serves as the University's 24-hour emergency communications hub, coordinating police, security and emergency medical responses while monitoring critical safety systems across campus.
AT A GLANCE
17,581
CALLS ANSWERED
2,983
EMERGENCY CALLS
11
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICERS
18
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
5,086
CALLS DISPATCHED
24/7
OPERATIONS
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Answer emergency and non-emergency calls
2
Dispatch police, security and EMS
3
Monitor cameras, alarms and emergency systems
4
Support Wake Safe emergency notifications
5
Maintain Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) records
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Added an 85-inch Real Time Intelligence Center display.
Future priorities include replacing aging communications hardware, improving system reliability and continuing investments in emergency communications technology.
z Enhanced staff training in ethics, professionalism, mental health response and active assailant response. z Expanded community engagement through Wake Safe promotion and outreach. z Supported communications for major campus events and emergencies.
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Emergency Management Overview Emergency Management strengthens the University's ability to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies through comprehensive planning, training, exercises and strategic partnerships.
AT A GLANCE
45+
EMERGENCY AND PREPAREDNESS
EXECUTIVE
Leadership TABLETOP EXERCISES
REGIONAL EMERGENCY
Partnerships
EXERCISES
Incident
MANAGEMENT TEAM COORDINATION
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER
Management
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Emergency planning
2
Training and exercises
3
Wake Alert coordination
4
Emergency Operations Center Management
5
Business continuity support
6
Regional coordination
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Conducted more than 45 emergency and preparedness exercises and trainings.
Emergency Management will continue strengthening institutional preparedness through expanded training, enhanced planning and regional collaboration as the University continues to grow.
z Expanded executive leadership and Incident Management Team exercises. z Strengthened regional emergency management partnerships. z Supported athletics and major campus events through emergency planning. z Added an Assistant Emergency Services Manager to expand departmental capacity.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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Security Operations Overview Security Operations provides visible security services across campus while coordinating special event planning, victim support, accreditation efforts and community engagement initiatives that contribute to a safe and welcoming campus.
AT A GLANCE
Security coverage ACROSS MULTIPLE
Special Event PLANNING AND COORDINATION
VICTIM
Support SERVICES
CAMPUS FACILITIES
Accreditation SUPPORT
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Initiatives
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Facility security
2
Event planning and staffing
3
Victim support services
4
Building security
5
Access monitoring
6
Community engagement
7
Accreditation support
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Coordinated security planning for major University events.
Security Operations will continue enhancing physical security, expanding event support capabilities and strengthening relationships across the campus community.
z Expanded community engagement initiatives across campus. z Continued nationally recognized accreditation efforts. z Supported RAD instruction and educational programming. z Strengthened victim support services.
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Deacon One & Security Technology Overview Deacon One manages the University's physical security infrastructure by integrating technology, access control and surveillance systems that support the safety of the Wake Forest community.
AT A GLANCE
2,000+ CAMERAS
14,000
ACCESS CONTROL
ANNUAL SERVICE
READERS
13
SOFTWARE PLATFORMS
24
2,000+
REQUESTS
$13 million
IN CAPITAL PROJECT SUPPORT
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Access control
2
Security cameras
3
Alarm systems
4
Classroom security technology
5
DEACStations
6
Video analytics
7
Security planning
8
Capital project management
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Expanded classroom safety technology with emergency notification systems and interior locking hardware.
As the University expands, Deacon One will continue investing in integrated security technologies that improve situational awareness, enhance access management and support future campus development.
z Continued deployment of DEACStations throughout campus. z Advanced Mobile One digital credential planning. z Managed expanding campus security infrastructure supporting University growth. z Continued modernization of security technology systems.
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Clery Overview The Clery Compliance Office oversees the University's comprehensive compliance program across the Wake Forest enterprise, ensuring transparency, regulatory compliance and timely communication regarding campus safety.
AT A GLANCE
ENTERPRISE-WIDE COMPLIANCE
Oversight
100–150
REPORTS REVIEWED DAILY
800
APPROXIMATELY 800 CAMPUS SECURITY AUTHORITIES TRAINED ANNUALLY
ANNUAL CRIME AND FIRE LOG
Management
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
TIMELY WARNING AND EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION
Support
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1
Clery Act compliance
2
Crime reporting
3
Daily Crime and Fire Log
4
Campus Security Authority training
5
Timely warnings
6
Emergency notification review
7
Annual Security Report coordination
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS (2023–2025)
LOOKING AHEAD
z Maintained comprehensive Clery compliance across all Wake Forest campuses.
Clery Compliance will continue strengthening reporting processes, enhancing campus partnerships and supporting a culture of transparency and accountability across the University.
z Expanded Campus Security Authority training efforts. z Continued daily review and analysis of incident reports. z Supported timely warnings and emergency notifications. z Strengthened collaboration across University partners to ensure compliance.
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Campus Safety by the Numbers
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Measuring Safety Through Data Every interaction, response and incident provides valuable insight into the safety of the Wake Forest community. Throughout the academic year, the Department of Safety & Security collects and analyzes operational data, crime statistics and community feedback to identify trends, evaluate performance and inform strategic decision-making. This data helps guide resource deployment, strengthen prevention efforts and ensure transparency with the campus community.
Crime Statistics Wake Forest University compiles and publishes annual crime statistics in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. Crime data is collected through the University's Records Management System (RMS), while dispatch activity, response times and incident information are supported through the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. These systems enable Safety & Security to identify trends, allocate resources strategically and continuously evaluate opportunities to enhance campus safety.
55
Alcohol Offenses 5
Assaults
11
6
B&E
14
B&E-Vehicle
19
10
Communicating threats
Crime Stats 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Comparisons
65
6
1
2023-2024
Damage to property
20 9
Fraud
28
2024-2025
18
3 3
Harassment Larceny
86
57 8
Larceny-Vehicle 1
Sexual Offenses Weapons on Campus
1
Violation of Controlled Substances
3 7
0
40
5 12
Source: Wake Forest University Police (UPD)
20
40
60
80
100
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Campus Safety by the Numbers Metric, Physical Year 2023-2025
17,581
5,086
CALLS ANSWERED
CALLS DISPATCHED
2,000+
2,000+ CARD READERS
DEACON ONE SERVICE REQUESTS
1,000+
800
45+
SECURITY CAMERAS
EMERGENCY CALLS
14,000
COMMUNITY SURVEY
CAMPUS SECURITY
EMERGENCY AND
RESPONSES
AUTHORITIES TRAINED
PREPAREDNESS EXERCISES
464
RAD PARTICIPANTS
30
2,983
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Key Crime Trends Analysis of reported incidents over the past two academic years identified several notable trends.
Decreases z Controlled substance violations declined. z Larceny offenses decreased.
Increases z Alcohol-related offenses increased. z Assaults and reports of sexual misconduct increased. z Breaking and entering incidents increased. z Fraud reports continued to rise. z Vehicle thefts increased, though the majority involved scooters, E-bikes and golf carts rather than automobiles, consistent with broader community trends. While year-to-year fluctuations are expected, these trends help guide prevention efforts, patrol strategies and educational initiatives across campus.
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Community Feedback Understanding how members of the Wake Forest community experience safety is an essential part of continuous improvement. In 2024, more than 1,000 students, faculty and staff participated in the Safety & Security Community Survey, representing Reynolda Campus as well as Wake Downtown, Graylyn, Reynolda Village, Wake Washington and other University locations. Survey responses reflected strong engagement with Safety & Security services and highlighted the department's commitment to professional, transparent and community-focused policing.
SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS 1
4
2
More than 1,000 survey responses received.
Respondents represented students, faculty, staff and visitors.
3
Many respondents reported positive interactions with officers during campus events and non-emergency contacts.
5
Approximately half of respondents indicated the department is very effective at notifying the campus community about hazards and safety concerns.
Survey results continue to guide departmental planning and community engagement initiatives.
WFU Community Engagement: A Year in Review Comparing Participant Affiliation and Interaction Frequency TOTAL RESPONSES:
1,020
PARTICIPATION BREAKDOWN
Staff
14% 47%
Undergraduate Students
875
1-2 Interactions
11%
478
TOTAL RESPONSES:
281
327
12% 3% 5%
Zero Interaction
271
3-4 Interactions
28%
INTERACTION BREAKDOWN
37%
12%
104 31%
Faculty
5-6 Interactions
147 Staff Undergraduate Students
Graduate Students
114
Faculty Graduate Students
7-10 Interactions
11 or more Interactions
Source: Wake Forest University Police (UPD)
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
46
Interactions
26 101
1-2
5-6
Zero
7-10
3-4
11 or more
Community Engagement & Accountability Building trust requires ongoing dialogue with the campus community. During the biennium, Safety & Security expanded opportunities for feedback through the implementation of PowerEngage, a text-based customer satisfaction platform. Following eligible interactions with officers, community members receive a brief survey to share their experiences, recognize exceptional service and provide suggestions for improvement. These responses complement the broader Community Safety Survey and help the department identify opportunities to enhance service delivery.
Data-Driven Decision Making Crime statistics, operational data and community feedback work together to shape the department's priorities. By combining incident analysis with direct input from the campus community, Safety & Security is able to: z Identify emerging trends. z Allocate patrol and security resources strategically. z Enhance prevention and education efforts. z Improve emergency preparedness. z Strengthen transparency and accountability. z Continuously improve services for the Wake Forest community. Together, these insights ensure that decisions are informed by evidence, responsive to community needs and aligned with the University's commitment to providing a safe and welcoming campus environment.
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Community Partnerships
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Building Safety Through Partnership At Wake Forest University, campus safety is built on relationships. Every day, the Department of Safety & Security partners with students, faculty, staff, parents and community organizations to foster a culture of trust, preparedness and shared responsibility. Through educational programming, community engagement and collaborative planning, these partnerships strengthen our ability to prevent incidents, respond effectively and create a campus where every member of the Wake Forest community can learn, live and thrive with confidence.
Community Resource Officers Building relationships before emergencies occur is central to community policing. Wake Forest University Police assigns Community Resource Officers (CROs) to residence halls and academic buildings across campus, where they serve as trusted partners for students, Residence Life & Housing staff, Faculty Fellows and campus departments. By participating in programs, attending events and maintaining a visible presence, CROs help build trust while serving as accessible resources for the campus community.
Deacon Student Patrol The Deacon Student Patrol (DSP) program provides students with meaningful leadership opportunities while expanding the University's overall safety efforts. Working alongside University Police, DSP members assist with building security, special events, parking lot patrols and other public safety initiatives. Beyond supporting departmental operations, the program develops student leaders who serve as ambassadors for campus safety and strengthen peer-to-peer engagement.
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Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program empowers students with practical self-defense skills while promoting personal safety and confidence. Offered in partnership with the Department of Health & Exercise Science, RAD combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in realistic self-defense techniques. More than 460 students completed the program during the 2023–2025 biennium.
Citizen Police Academy The Citizen Police Academy provides members of the Wake Forest community with an inside look at campus policing and public safety operations. Through a multi-week program, participants gain a greater understanding of law enforcement procedures, emergency response, investigations and community policing while building stronger relationships with University Police personnel.
Police Advisory Board The Police Advisory Board serves as an important bridge between the Department of Safety & Security and the Wake Forest community. Representing students, faculty, staff and campus leadership, the Board provides valuable feedback on departmental initiatives, reviews community survey data, supports policy development and promotes transparency and accountability throughout the organization. During the biennium, the Board also supported the implementation of PowerEngage, reviewed recommendations from the University's AfterAction Review, and continued to expand campus representation.
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Community Engagement Safety & Security builds relationships by participating in many of the experiences that define campus life. Throughout the biennium, department personnel participated in numerous community events, including: z Move-In
z Hit the Bricks
z Campus Days
z Second Harvest Food Bank service projects
z Face to Face Speaker Series z Pizza with Police z Project Pumpkin
z Wake Downtown outreach events.
These opportunities foster meaningful connections with students, families and employees outside of emergency situations while reinforcing the department's commitment to service and visibility.
Professional Collaboration Safety & Security remains committed to advancing public safety by sharing knowledge and learning from peers across higher education. During the biennium, the department: z Hosted the Campus Public Safety Best Practices Conference, bringing together campus safety leaders from across the country. z Welcomed Michigan State University leaders to share lessons learned following the 2023 campus shooting, strengthening emergency preparedness and crisis response planning. z Continued collaboration with local law enforcement, emergency management agencies, healthcare partners and higher education institutions to improve preparedness and response capabilities.
Stronger Together The partnerships highlighted throughout this report reflect a simple belief: campus safety is a shared responsibility. Whether building relationships with students, collaborating with campus departments or learning alongside peer institutions, Safety & Security remains committed to strengthening the connections that make Wake Forest a safer and more resilient community. Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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Investing in Our People
afety & Security 2025 Biennial Report
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Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
The Strength Behind Our Success Behind every emergency response, every safety initiative and every meaningful partnership is a dedicated team of professionals committed to serving the Wake Forest community. Throughout the 2023–2025 biennium, the Department of Safety & Security continued to invest in its people through comprehensive training, professional development and leadership opportunities that strengthen both individual expertise and organizational excellence. From onboarding new employees and mentoring future leaders to recognizing outstanding performance and celebrating career milestones, these investments ensure our team is prepared to meet the evolving needs of the University. This commitment extends beyond operational readiness. It reflects our belief that a culture of continuous learning, recognition and professional growth enables our employees to better serve the students, faculty, staff and visitors who rely on us every day.
DURING THE 2023–2025 BIENNIUM, WE CELEBRATED: 1
Professional and leadership development opportunities across the department
2
Specialized training and certifications that strengthened operational readiness
3
Employee promotions recognizing excellence and career advancement
4
Departmental and community awards honoring outstanding service
5
Years of service milestones celebrating long-term dedication to Wake Forest
6
The addition of new team members who bring diverse experiences and perspectives
7
The retirement of valued colleagues whose careers have left a lasting impact on our department and University
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Celebrating Our Team The accomplishments highlighted throughout this report are possible because of the extraordinary people who serve the Wake Forest community each day. To recognize the individuals behind these achievements, we've created an online recognition page featuring employee awards, promotions, years of service milestones, new team members, retirements and other departmental celebrations from the 2023–2025 biennium.
DERRI STORMER Major, Support Services, Strategic Initiatives and Community Engagement Division
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“Our commitment is simple: to protect our community, build trust, and serve with purpose. Through partnership, accountability, and a shared responsibility for safety, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels secure, supported, and empowered to learn, work, and thrive.”
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Preparing for the Future The landscape of higher education continues to evolve, bringing new opportunities, emerging risks and increasing expectations for campus safety. As Wake Forest University grows, so too must the Department of Safety & Security's ability to anticipate change, strengthen partnerships and invest in the people, technologies and resources that support a safe and thriving campus community.
Looking ahead, four strategic priorities will guide our continued efforts to protect and serve the University.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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Campus Growth
Emerging Risks
Wake Forest University's continued growth presents exciting opportunities and requires thoughtful planning to ensure the safety and security of its expanding community. As academic programs, research initiatives and facilities evolve, Safety & Security remains committed to scaling operations, technology and emergency preparedness to meet the University's changing needs.
The challenges facing colleges and universities continue to evolve. Safety & Security remains focused on identifying emerging risks while strengthening prevention, preparedness and response capabilities.
Looking Ahead Supporting the continued development of The Grounds, creating security strategies for a vibrant mixed-use district serving students, employees and visitors. Expanding services to support the growing Wake Forest University School of Medicine presence in Charlotte, including The Pearl innovation district. Enhancing public safety resources to support continued enrollment growth and an increasingly diverse campus population.
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Looking Ahead Continuing to support students experiencing mental health concerns through collaboration with the CARE Team, Threat Assessment Team and campus wellbeing partners. Expanding capabilities to address emerging cybersecurity and technology-related threats that increasingly impact higher education. Maintaining preparedness for active threat incidents and the changing landscape of gun violence affecting communities nationwide.
Strengthening security planning for expanding research facilities and specialized academic environments.
Continuing to leverage innovative technologies, data analytics and integrated security systems to improve situational awareness and decision-making.
Adapting operations to serve a broader geographic footprint across the Wake Forest enterprise.
Strengthening prevention strategies through education, communication and proactive engagement.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
Recruitment & Workforce
Strategic Investments
The department's greatest asset is its people. Recruiting, developing and retaining exceptional professionals remains essential to fulfilling the department's mission.
As the University evolves, continued investment in people, technology and infrastructure will ensure Safety & Security remains prepared to meet future challenges.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
Addressing the ongoing national challenge of recruiting and retaining qualified law enforcement professionals.
Continuing to modernize physical security systems, including access control, surveillance technology and emergency communications.
Continuing to invest in leadership development and succession planning across the organization.
Enhancing facilities and operational resources that support effective public safety operations.
Expanding professional development opportunities through advanced certifications, specialized training and leadership education.
Expanding community engagement initiatives that strengthen trust and shared responsibility for campus safety.
Maintaining a culture of continuous learning that supports operational excellence and employee wellbeing. Building a diverse, highly skilled workforce that reflects the values of the Wake Forest community.
Increasing investments in emergency preparedness through training, exercises and regional partnerships. Leveraging innovation and technology to improve operational efficiency, transparency and service to the Wake Forest community.
Safety & Security 2023–2025 Biennial Report - Protecting Our Community Through Service, Innovation and Partnership
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To learn more about Safety & Security’s Safety & Security commitment to fostering a safe, secure and 2023–2025 Biennial Report thriving campus community, visit: campuslife.wfu. edu/support-and-services/safety-security.
Non-emergency phone number
336.758.5591
In case of an emergency
911