Safety strolls kick off the fall semester

Oct. 2, 2025
A group of students on a Safety Stroll are standing near a blue light phone on campus. Chief Olson is speaking with them.

The Office of Public Safety and Fraternity and Sorority Programs partnered to host a Safety Stroll for 51 new fraternity members on Oct. 1, 2025. One of the resources students learn about on the strolls are emergency blue light phones.

The semester is off to a busy start, and the Office of Public Safety team has been out meeting Wildcats where they are. Through the Safety Stroll initiative, and in partnership with Fraternity and Sorority Programs, Arizona International and W. A. Franke Honors College, OPS has connected with nearly 200 students this fall.

A Safety Stroll is an hour-long walk through main campus with Chief Safety Officer Steve Patterson, offering an opportunity for students to receive an overview of safety resources, ask questions, and share their experiences – all with the goal of creating a more prepared, informed and connected university community.

"I have already had a couple chapters reach out asking how to get connected with Public Safety again to host another stroll for members who were unable to attend," shared Greer Vinall, associate director, Fraternity and Sorority Programs. "The ability to develop these relationships in a neutral setting makes students more comfortable seeking out these [safety] services in times of need."

Whether it’s meeting U of A safety leaders and team members, learning about the SafeCats app, talking about current campus events, or understanding the mental health services available through CAPS, Safety Strolls provide a range of safety information to help students play an active role in creating a culture of safety every day. 

Upcoming Strolls – Family Weekend, Faculty and Staff

  • Find us on the U of A Mall during the Bear Down Festival on Friday, Oct. 10. We’ll be hosting a special Safety Stroll - Family Weekend from 11 a.m. - noon for parents, family members and friends (and students!). This stroll is drop-in, with sign-up on site.
  • Safety Strolls are for faculty and staff, too! Join us on Oct. 14 at 5:30 p.m. for Safety Stroll - Faculty and Staff to meet fellow employees for a one-hour stroll. Learn tips for yourself and students you work with, teach or support. Register here.

Are you interested in hosting a Safety Stroll for your group or department? Visit safety.arizona.edu/safetystrolls to learn more.