Campus safety is always a buzzing topic at Michigan State University. Whether it’s walking home at night, attending a late study session, or navigating life after high-profile threats, students want to know that their campus is secure. But do they believe MSU is doing enough?
“The MSU Department of Police and Public Safety (DPPS) has taken significant steps to enhance security across campus.”
Said Nadia Vizueta, an MSU DPPS communications representative. The new Security Operations Center now operates 24/7, staffed by 12 full-time employees and a supervisor.
“The Security Operations Center also has the capability of remotely locking down buildings around campus to help further enhance security,” Vizueta said.
Other security updates include additional sirens, safety phones, and surveillance cameras, as well as automatic enrollment of 51,000 students and 7,000 employees into the emergency alert system. A network of green light emergency phones remains in place for students needing immediate contact with 9-1-1.
MSU has also developed the SafeMSU app, which provides campus safety resources, emergency messaging, and a “Virtual Friend Walk” feature that allows students to share their location with a trusted friend while walking at night.
Do Students Feel Safe?
Kofi Tekyi-Mensah, an MSU student, said he generally feels safe, thanks to new ID scanners in dorms and the quick response time of law enforcement.
“Yes, I feel safe on campus due to the newly integrated or fairly new ID scanners on my floor and throughout my dorm hall,” he said. “And also because I live right next to a fire station, and the police response time is always very quick.”
However, he believes that some locations, such as IM West and IM East, could use more security measures. He also suggests adding more green light telephones across campus.
Shareef Wesaga, a freshman, said he feels that MSU has done a good job keeping students safe, especially in dorms.
“I think some areas in the South side of campus could use better safety measures,” he said.
For Gabriel Perez, Junior, safety concerns extend beyond campus boundaries. He says off-campus apartment security is a bigger issue than on-campus safety.
“One apartment I always go to, the door, you can just yank it open and get inside,” Perez said. “Or you can use the parking lot, walk up to some doors, and just open them.”
The Impact of the Recent Shooting Threat
A recent shooting threat occurred on Michigan State’s Campus, from a MSU student, Hope Duncan, before spring break intensified campus-wide concerns about safety. Shareef Wesaga, who lived in the same dorm as the suspect, said that although police acted quickly, the situation was alarming.
“The girl who threatened it was in my dorm when my roommate and friends were in the same building,” he said. “But she was quickly arrested.”
Kofi Tekyi-Mensah also acknowledged the police’s swift action in handling the threat. However, such incidents still leave students feeling uneasy.
The Role of Mental Health in Campus Safety
Psychology professor Jan Brascamp said the university’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is a valuable resource that students should use.
“They are available for students with mental health issues, and that’s what they’re there for.” Brascamp said.
He also noted that post-COVID, mental health struggles have increased, making social connections more important than ever.
“I think that social aspect is extremely important,” he said. “It’s important that students are connected with their community and other students.”
MSU PD’s Advice: How Students Can Stay Safe
MSU DPPS encourages students to take an active role in their safety. It’s key recommendations include:
- Attend safety workshops. MSU PD hosts educational programs to teach students about crime prevention and personal security.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like headphones or texting while walking alone.
- Use campus resources. Take advantage of green light phones, CATA buses, and the SafeMSU app.
- Travel in groups. Walking with friends, especially at night, reduces risk.
- Report anything suspicious. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency or MSU DPPS at 517-355-2221 for non-emergencies.