USU Security Opens Branch Office in Taggart Student Center

Utah State University’s Department of Public Safety has opened a branch office in the Taggart Student Center on the main Logan campus. The office, located in room 238, was opened in January to provide a closer public safety relationship with students, staff and faculty.

The increased presence of security and law enforcement increases the safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors to campus. With more than 20,000 people on the Logan campus every day, having an office in the student center facilitates faster response times and allows for better customer service when issues arise. 

“We want to cultivate a relationship with the campus community so that they feel more comfortable reaching out for help when they need it,” said Scott Bodily, security supervisor with the Department of Public Safety.

USU Security, as a part of the Department of Public Safety, was significantly expanded last fall. The additional personnel allow for an increase in USU Security presence from what was primarily an evening lock up role, to now operating through various shift hours seven days a week.

The expansion of USU Security is not in response to a known problem, but is in response to the reality that a problem can happen at any time and in any place. USU Administration and the Department of Public Safety, in particular, wish to use resources to prevent negative incidents if possible, and react quickly and effectively if there is a problem. The development of a more robust security division is a critical component of that effort.  

“Safety is everyone’s business,” Bodily said. “If we are all, regardless of our official position, mindful and vigilant in the day to day observation of potential risks and hazards, then we collectively create a safer place to work and go to school.” 

USU Security acts as an essential set of eyes and ears for USU Police, Fire and Emergency Management. Security officers may be dispatched to non-criminal incidents such as utility problems or fire alarms, or, for a criminal incident or safety concern, they have direct radio communication with on-duty police officers to direct appropriate resources to the problem.  

The newly-opened TSC office welcomes all, whether they need to discuss a concern, or just have questions about campus safety. USU Security is always willing to meet with any department on campus to discuss safety issues.  

The Department of Public Safety protects life and property and provides the campus community with a secure and safe living, learning and working environment. 

In case of an emergency, 911 should be called. For non-emergencies, the USU Department of Public Safety can be reached at 435-797-1939.