Commencement

I want to provide some context on safety related changes being made for commencement. One reality is often things that can keep us safe can also create some discomfort. We recognize that some of these changes may not be as popular but please know they are being implemented to enhance safety and also deal with current world events. Commencement is a time of celebration we want to ensure  collectively we have done all we can to mitigate certain risks. 

We are introducing six fixed entry points into the quad. Four points will have Open Gate security devices and two others will have traditional metal detectors. Each entry point will be staffed with at least two team members. To learn more about the prohibited items and clear bag policy please visit the commencement webpage. This will be the most visible safety related change. There are other enhancements to safety being made that are less intrusive. As mentioned earlier, we want this event to occur safely and without disruption. Unfortunately we live in a world where swattings are occurring around us, and we are obligated to do everything we can to prevent an act of violence or false call from disrupting the event. I can wish for a world where this level of planning was unnecessary, but we must face current times with proper planning for the actual world we live in and the risks associated with it.

Public Safety Survey

I want to thank every student and employee who took time to complete the survey. The responses will be analyzed to determine what we are doing well and where we have opportunities for improvement. In time I plan to share not only the results, but also how we’ll incorporate your responses into future planning. This feedback will lay the foundation for our organizational strategic plan. Our goal is continual improvement, and the data provided by our community will be instrumental in the next phase of Public Safety’s professional growth and development. 

Parking

In the survey, employees named parking the top issue we can improve upon (31%). While I appreciate the frustration, it’s important to recognize that our parking challenges are related to a lack of capacity — there are simply not enough spaces for all of the cars. However, I understand and acknowledge the expectation from employees that we need to do more enforcement.

To change motorist behavior, we are increasing parking fees and violation costs in the new fiscal year. The tow threshold will stay the same. Students will receive an email in April advising them of the new cap of 1,400 student permits for the 2026-27 academic year (an increase of 100 spaces) as well as dates for permit registration Student permits will cost $220 for the academic year (up from $200) and $50 for the summer (up from $25). All of these updates will appear on our website on July 1.

Our year to date parking statistics are as follows:

Citations Issued – Up till 4/2/2026: 2,823

Tows – Jan 1/ 26- 3/27/2026: 123

March 2026 overall call for service statistics