The university’s Public Safety Office plays an important role in providing a safe and orderly environment on our campus. There are officers and a dispatch center that are around 24/7 to provide assistance. Additionally, the office publishes important documents, such as the Annual Security and Fire Report for students and staff to read so all can work together to keep our campus running smoothly and securely.
Recently, the office has appointed a new director, Michael O’Neill. Through his interactions with individuals on campus, as well as education, enforcement and crime prevention activities, he aids in ensuring safety and awareness. O’Neill has an abundant history within law enforcement that makes this position very fitting for him.
“I have about 30 years of public safety experience, most recently as a Commander with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office… I worked for the Sheriff’s Office in many different roles: watch commander, assistant superintendent for the jail, patrol supervisor, transport unit sergeant, deputy sheriff and beginning as a correctional officer…I was also on the SWAT, Crisis Intervention and Peer Support Teams. I am also a Military Police Command Sergeant Major in the Army Reserve, so I have law enforcement experience with the military as well. I graduated valedictorian from the Southern Police Institute (University of Louisville) Police Executive Leadership Graduate Program last year. I have a master’s degree and am completing my doctoral dissertation in Public Policy and Administration,” O’Neill states.
Furthermore, the role as director was very appealing to O’Neill, who feels that he has much to offer to UT Martin due to being a student and educator for most of his adult life. His work on campus began on Aug. 1, and has been focusing his efforts on learning and helping the campus community.
“I am excited. I’ve been at UT Martin for three weeks, and every day has only reinforced my perception that this university really cares about their students and employees. I am probably going to be learning as much this semester as any incoming freshman, but I am looking forward to helping students succeed by being part of the team and maintaining a safe campus environment,” O’Neill says.
Campus safety and security is fundamental to every college student, staff, faculty and visitor. O’Neill and his team are dedicated to providing this and working with everyone involved in UT Martin. Furthermore, they are here to support all UT students and help with any issues.
“Campus safety involves everyone. If you are aware of a concern, please let us know so we can address it. I want my officers to be accessible on campus and develop working relationships with faculty, staff, and students. If you see an officer, please say hello and take a moment to talk to them. They are here to help and every one of them loves this university. Many of them are or were students themselves. Also, we are hiring, so if you know anyone who is interested in a law enforcement career and who wants to help others, please direct them to us. We have student worker positions, part time positions, and certified peace officer positions,” O’Neill states.
The Public Safety Office is located within Crisp Hall, and officers are always available. To learn more about the Public Safety Office and its team, visit https://www.utm.edu/offices-and-services/public-safety/.
