Dear Campus Community,

As a Tucson native, I consider the University of Arizona home. I remember going to Arizona football, basketball, and baseball games with my father, with my worldview directly impacted by whether we won or lost (my wife would argue nothing has changed). I have owned and treasured at least one “Block A” hat or t-shirt for as long as I can remember.

My father, sister, and uncle are all Arizona Wildcats. I vividly recall enjoying family time at the turtle pond and on the mall when my kids were little. Now, my daughter has the University on her list of law school possibilities and my son soon will be attending, so the ties continue to grow and strengthen.

It is with these special connections in mind that I am honored to serve as the University’s Interim Chief Safety Officer. I care deeply about this community and am proud to contribute through impactful and meaningful change.

My work with the University began in late 2022. My priority as Interim Chief Safety Officer is to provide a safe and inclusive environment for students, faculty, staff, and those who visit the University. As Chief Safety Officer, I oversee the Office of Public Safety which includes the University of Arizona Police Department (UAPD), Facilities Management, Risk Management, Parking and Transportation Services, Threat Assessment and Management, and Emergency Management. Together, we strive to build a safe and supportive community.

From my 24 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and leading the FBI’s Tucson Office, I know the importance of building trust and working in partnership with the communities we serve. I will continue this work, alongside UAPD Interim Chief Chris Olson, to deepen our community connections using a listen, learn, and lead philosophy.

During my time as Interim Chief Safety Officer, I have met with students, faculty, staff, and community groups, to better understand everyone’s concerns and build relationships that will benefit us all.

On this website, you will learn about the progress we are making on our safety initiatives. We will share important safety-related resources for the University community, including the mission and values of the Office of Public Safety and updates from our newly developed Safety Commission.

Given the indelible mark the University of Arizona has left on my family, I am honored to have the opportunity to give back to the university. I'm excited to see the progress already underway to ensure the safety of our communities. And I can’t help but beam with pride hearing ‘Bear Down’ blaring on campus at noon.

Please contact my office via email if you have feedback or questions related to University safety.

Steve Patterson
Chief Safety Officer
The University of Arizona

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