The Department of Public Safety accepts their Advanced Accreditation during the Fall 2024 CALEA Conference. Pictured from left: CALEA Commissioner Marlon Lynch, DPS Director of Administration Donna Adams, Associate VP and Chief of Campus Safety and Emergency Management Craig A. Stone, DPS Accreditation Manager and Detective Chris Wood and CALEA Executive Director W. Craig Hartley, Jr. (Photo courtesy of CALEA)
The number one priority of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is keeping the campus community safe. This is accomplished through adhearing to public safety standards set forth by the and the . DPS obtained both the IACLEA accreditation in 2015 and CALEA accreditation in 2020 and is pleased to announce being granted advanced accreditation by CALEA.
In April 2022, Craig A. Stone, associate vice president and chief of campus safety and emergency management services, directed DPS staff to work together to seek advanced accreditation knowing that this would not only enhance the delivery of public safety services but also build trust within the campus community. Advanced accreditation surpasses standard accreditation by requiring the DPS to meet an even more comprehensive set of rigorous standards. This level of accreditation is a testament to DPS’s dedication to adopting and following best recognized practices, maintaining high levels of professionalism, and ensuring that its operations are aligned with the most up-to-date and effective law enforcement methodologies.
“We appreciate the annual external file reviews, and the independent on-site assessment conducted by CALEA to verify our compliance with advanced accreditation,” says Chief Stone. “Obtaining advanced accreditation is a voluntary process, which we welcomed as an opportunity to demonstrate the highest level of public safety service in our commitment to keeping the campus community safe.”
During its assessment, DPS demonstrated compliance with CALEA’s advanced standards, addressing the requirements with minimal issues. Throughout the process, the department consistently met the stringent criteria set by CALEA, showcasing its commitment to maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, accountability and operational excellence.
“Obtaining advanced law enforcement accreditation from CALEA demonstrates the commitment the ϲ Department of Public Safety has for enhancing its operational efficiency, accountability and professionalism,” says Detective Christopher Wood, accreditation manager. “This accreditation provides opportunities for ongoing training and development, improving overall performance and helping to maintain a safe and secure campus environment.”
Through advanced accreditation, DPS has improved its operational capabilities that are designed to address the challenges of campus safety. This includes more innovative training programs for officers, better relationships with our law enforcement partners and the establishment of more robust risk management and crime analysis. These improvements enable the department to respond more effectively to emergencies, manage risks effectively and provide a greater level of security for the campus community.
DPS achieving advanced accreditation with CALEA represents a significant milestone in our commitment to excellence and highlights the department’s critical role as a partner in maintaining a safe and supportive campus, contributing to ϲ’s broader mission of ensuring a safe and secure living, learning and working environment in partnership with those it serves.
