Glen Oaks Community College has been awarded a $50,000 grant to be used toward installation and implementation of a modernized campus video surveillance system.
Funded through the Michigan State Police Sexual Assault Grant program, the college was one of four community colleges and 19 four-year universities selected for funding.
The grant will allow for additional camera installations at the college’s main entrances, the north and south wing entrances, the newly renovated grand concourse and the parking lots.
“The safety of our students is a top priority and camera systems are known to improve campus safety and security,” said Tonya Howden, VP of student services. “The new system will provide us with the ability to monitor, respond to and investigate any activity on campus, including potential sexual assaults.”
As part of the system, campus safety and other college personnel, along with the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office, will have access to video cameras and video footage for investigation in the event of any crimes that may occur on the campus.Last year the college received a $33,000 grant from the same program. The funds went toward the surveillance system in student housing and for the implementation of an online Safe Colleges training for all students and employees.
The Michigan legislature appropriated $1.3 million for 2020 to reduce sexual assault among college and high school student populations. Eligible program categories included education, awareness, bystander intervention, and campus improvements related to public safety, etc.