In the two years since the April 2023 release of York University’s Security Services Review report , a suite of committees has been working to scope, plan for and implement recommendations to make the University a safer space for all.
The review, conducted by an internal expert panel, outlined a set of recommendations to help transition York to a community-centric model for safety services that is equitable, bias-free, transparent, collaborative, representative and organizationally aligned.
As the Community Safety Department concludes year two of implementing recommendations, it will continue to build on its foundation and initiate new projects.
Renaming
A naming campaign was launched in January 2025, involving extensive consultation with the wider University community for the front-line personnel job title. The latest results for the naming campaign are listed below:
- Community Safety Official: 29 per cent
- Campus Safety Official: 41 per cent
- Community Safety Liaison: 15 per cent
- Other: 15 per cent
While early results show “Campus Safety Official” as the preferred title, there is still time to vote. The voting period will remain open until March 31. The final name will be revealed in the fall. Following this, the community will be asked for input on another naming campaign to rename the unit York Security Services.
Addressing homelessness
Addressing homelessness continues to be a priority at York University campuses. A comprehensive approach that includes both short- and long-term strategies intersect with the University’s operations and services unit. Andrea Watters Westbrook, the new manager of complex communities, has joined the team and will focus on coordinating specialized supports for those on York's campuses experiencing homelessness.
The long-term plan focuses on mental health and well-being initiatives, implementation and evaluation strategies and increased transparency in York’s Security Services activities to ensure community awareness and understanding of security activity.
Commitment to anti-racism
The Community Safety Department’s commitment to anti-racism continues, with plans to update practices and standard operating procedures to incorporate anti-racial profiling elements. As part of this effort, the department launched a one-year pilot in May 2024 to implement the collection of race-related identity data. This initiative aims to monitor for disproportionate outcomes related to race in all significant security enforcement activities. The department is also creating a report structure for hate activity incidents.
Reducing police involvement
The Community Safety Department has procured an external consultant to lead an 18-month consultation process – involving faculty, students and staff – to consider limited deployment of security staff with enhanced special constable powers. The working group is looking for more faculty representation to contribute to the focused review. Those interested in participating can email securityreview@yorku.ca.
Increasing community engagement
The Community Safety Department at York University is actively engaging with staff, faculty and student groups through road shows to discuss the progress of the Safety and Security Review (SSR). The department seeks a Chair and a student vice-chair to lead the Community Safety Council, which meets every three months to set the agenda and lead the meetings.
An engagement plan has been developed, incorporating networking opportunities, focus groups and roundtable discussions to maintain open dialogue with the community.
Community Safety Week
The Community Safety Department hosts York’s Community Safety Week for the winter term from March 17 to 20, which focuses on promoting safety awareness, fostering community engagement and providing resources and support to address safety concerns.
During the week, there will be a range of activities and workshops to engage students, faculty and staff on topics related to personal, community and environmental safety.
Some of the highlights include:
Tabling at all three campus locations to provide more information on the department and tips on how to maintain personal safety.
- Keele – Monday, March 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Vari Hall
- Glendon – Monday, March 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Centre of Excellence (North Corridor and Lobby Area)
- Markham – Monday, March 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Atrium Lobby
A Community Safety Survey to gather valuable input from staff, faculty and students.
Community Safety Information Session on YU Learn – Tuesday, March 18, 1 to 2 p.m. Participate in an online information session about how the Community Safety Department fosters a safe and inclusive campus environment, key safety initiative, and available resources. The session includes a Q-and-A period.
Situational Awareness Training on YU Learn – Wednesday, March 19, 1 to 2:30 p.m. This course provides an in-depth understanding of situational awareness (SA) and its role in personal safety. Participants will learn to recognize different awareness levels, identify risks and respond effectively to potential threats.
Virtual Panel: Navigating Homelessness – Community Perspectives and Solutions Zoom Webinar – Thursday, March 20, 1 to 2:30 p.m. This panel will explore homelessness in communities, bringing together diverse voices to share insights and experiences regarding challenges and innovative solutions to campus safety in post-secondary institutions.
To learn more about the Security Services Review, including other recommendations to be implemented, visit the Community Safety website.