Ohio State News Alert: Resources, engagement opportunities among safety updates

The Ohio State University President Kristina M. Johnson encouraged the use of available university resources and highlighted opportunities for community engagement in her Health, Safety and Well-being Update video this week.

Earlier this month, the university launched the Community Crime Map, a tool to help students, faculty and staff stay aware of major crimes in the off-campus area. A step-by-step video on how to customize the map is available on the Department of Public Safety website.

“The map helps you to quickly view crimes occurring off campus in a visual format – and set up your own email alerts that can be sent daily, weekly or monthly,” Johnson explained.

Additionally, the installation of cameras at the Ohio Union North and South garages has been completed. The university also has plans to add cameras at garages serving the Wexner Medical Center as well as other locations around the Columbus campus.

Johnson added that “fostering dialogue and engagement among our community and those charged with helping to keep us safe is a vital element in Ohio State’s collaborative approach to safety.” On April 8, Ohio State’s Office of Student Life will host the conclusion of this year’s Food Truck Event Series, featuring free food and conversation with student Community Ambassadors. The event will be from 4 to 6 p.m. in the University District. Johnson also highlighted the work of faculty member Simone Drake, who is leading an interdisciplinary project aimed at improving relations between police and the communities they serve.

Finally, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to sign up for the last Buckeye Booster Drawing by Sunday, April 3, to be eligible to win a $100 gift card.

“After next week, 800 students, faculty and staff who received their COVID-19 booster will have won gift cards,” Johnson said. “Thank you to all who participated – and especially for helping to keep yourself and one another safe.”