5 Questions with a UAPD Community Academy graduate

Building a culture of safety is a shared responsibility that depends on open communication, understanding and partnership across our campus community. The UAPD Community Academy launched in spring 2024 to provide U of A faculty and staff a unique opportunity to meet and engage with the people behind campus safety efforts. Through conversations with UAPD officers and staff, participants gain a deeper understanding of how campus safety operations work and how every member of our community can contribute to maintaining a supportive environment. The academy is now held annually during the spring semester.

Karina McCune, IT Support Manager for Tech Zones in Instructional Technology Services, participated in the Fall 2024 Community Academy. She shared what inspired her to participate and what she took away from the experience.

1. What motivated you to join the Community Academy? What were you hoping to learn or experience?

As a supervisor of student employees, it is crucial for me to understand the safety measures, protocols, and processes implemented by UAPD to ensure our campus's well-being. Since my staff is stationed in various locations throughout the university, I am increasingly aware of the importance of campus safety. This awareness motivated me to attend the Community Academy to learn about safety practices so that I can confidently share resources and protocols with my team.

2. You had the opportunity to hear from a range of teams, including community service officers, MHST (mental health support team), the records unit, and Pima Regional SWAT. Was there a particular topic or conversation that really stood out to you?

As an IT professional, I found the statutes outlining three key methods for communicating potential threats or crimes on campus using technology to be both enlightening and practical. They clearly explained the why, how, when, and what types of communication are utilized, particularly through their analysis of the Clery Act. My understanding of UAPD and the Office of Public Safety's role in communication with the community has deepened my appreciation for the dedicated efforts of those committed to our safety. As a result, I now value the UAlert notifications I receive through the SafeCats app and Crime Alerts via email even more.

3. After engaging with officers and staff, and touring the UAPD building, what surprised you most about what you learned or about the work UAPD does?

What truly amazed me was the unwavering support from their leadership for both the officers and staff, highlighting their crucial role in enhancing campus safety. They view our safety as intrinsically connected to the well-being of Tucson, Pima County, and even beyond — including international implications. The UAPD team is committed to continuous learning and improvement, actively seeking and embracing opportunities to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and colleges. This dedication demonstrates that UAPD recognizes the fundamental importance of lifelong learning in achieving our shared goal of safety.

4. How did participating in the academy shape your understanding of campus safety or your connection to the university community?

My participation in the UAPD Community Academy alongside my campus peers has deepened my understanding of the various roles and components of campus safety and UAPD. This experience allows me to be an engaged neighbor and to collaborate proactively with both UAPD and the Office of Public Safety. Safety is a collective responsibility that involves everyone on campus. By participating actively, I aim to contribute meaningfully to our shared goal of creating a secure environment.

5. What would you say to a colleague who’s thinking about signing up for the next session?

I recommend attending the session and encourage you to bring someone along, such as a co-worker or someone you believe could be a great advocate for safety stewardship. If you attend with someone as a team, you can increase your motivation to interact and participate together. The more people who attend, the better we can work together to ensure our and others’ safety. This session is not just about learning processes and procedures; it's also an opportunity to engage in dialogue, share insights, and provide feedback as a community for the benefit of the community.