COLUMN: Students should take notice of UPD’s extra effort

The University Police Department is no stranger to students at the University of South Dakota. We see them every day and everywhere on campus.

They are the reason the campus is secure and parents trust you to be here by yourself.

This year, the UPD has been making an extra effort to step up for student security and campus safety.

Their main goal is to provide the highest level of public service for the campus and surrounding community that they can. They are vigilant in protecting both life and property of USD by being committed to safeguarding the best interest and well-being of this community.

The UPD is located in the Davidson Building and is open to everyone on campus and in the community.

The past year, the UPD has made their presence known with more campus patrols and bike patrols. They are trying to be active and available. They can interact with the students and show how approachable they are in case of an emergency. They encourage a healthy relationship of trust and communication between the students and officers. The office is staffed 24/7, and in case of emergency, they can arrive at the scene within minutes.

Since they are an independent department, they can solve the crimes, incidents or, sometimes, just simple disciplinary action issues within campus.

It is very important for us as students to be actively involved in recognizing the UPD, and introducing them to new students on campus. Students need to be aware they have the protection they need on campus, and the UPD is more than able to help them.

The department maintains a website that has every bit of information a student needs to know, from the basics to emergency preparedness.

Not only is the UPD looking out for students in regards to crime, but they also help students out when it comes to weather. The UPD also offers bad weather alerts way ahead of time in case the highways are not safe to travel. They have a Facebook page which has all the information on safety, officer achievements and public announcements.  How much more accessible can you get? Students and other community members should definitely feel free to go ask for help from them because the UPD is approachable, accessible and eager to help.

Reach columnist Preeti Gupta at [email protected]