By Will Middleton
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
As Kendra walked across Towson University’s campus after a late-night study session, she clutched her keys between her fingers and glanced over her shoulder. She loved Towson but couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling when walking alone at night.
“The university has great resources, but I still don’t always feel safe walking by myself,” Kendra admitted. “We need better lighting in some areas and more visible security patrols.”
Towson University’s administration had already taken steps to improve safety, such as expanding the campus shuttle system and increasing emergency call boxes. However, some students felt that more could be done. A student athlete believed education was key.
“Safety isn’t just about security guards,” the athlete said. “It’s about awareness. We need to make students take mandatory sessions on situational awareness and self-defense techniques, so they feel empowered, not afraid.”
Meanwhile, Officer Smith from campus security had seen improvements over the years but knew safety required teamwork.
“We’re always looking for ways to make campus safer,” he said. “But students play a big role, too. Simple things like walking in groups, using the SaferMobility app, and reporting suspicious activity make a huge difference.”
In Fall 2024, Towson University’s student government association took these concerns to the administration and conducted a walk through, proposing new security measures like additional lighting in parking lots and more late-night shuttles. With faculty, students, and security working together, the campus could become safer.
Additionally, Towson offers safety education programs and self-defense training to empower students. The university also promotes a culture of awareness through crime prevention initiatives and encourages students to report concerns. With these efforts, Towson University strives to maintain a secure and supportive environment for all students, faculty, and staff.
As Kendra reached her dorm safely, she felt hopeful. Change was happening, one conversation, one policy, and one step at a time.
* Headline created by Microsoft 365 Copilot