Five local colleges and universities are relying on your vote to improve their campus’ public safety.
Crowder College, Drury and Evangel University, Mercy College of Nursing and Health Sciences at SBU, plus Missouri State University West Plains are currently competing with hundreds of schools across the country to receive the STANLEY Security Together for Safer Schools grant program.
To be considered as a finalist, the schools submitted a statement to STANLEY Security earlier this month. In 250 words, officials evaluated their campus’ current public safety needs. From these nominations, finalists were selected by STANLEY Security officials.
Then the voting process began. Just as they do in the popular television show American Idol and other competitions; tweets, texts, shares, and online votes will determine the winners in each category. All five area schools are competing under Tier 1, or schools with under 8,000 students.
The safety grants are in high demand. Mercy College of Nursing and Health Sciences released this statement from Bob McGlasson, associate provost and vice president for operations.
“We are experiencing tremendous growth and our facilities are in used day and night. Enhancing our security….provides opportunities for extended use of the building to greater serve our educational needs,” McGlasson explained.
In statements released on the STANLEY Security website, Evangel University says that public safety is essential in promoting its mission statement.
Drury University says the grant would be used to implement more security cameras, card access entries, and education programs about public safety issues.
Similarly, Missouri State University West Plains would use the funding to improve entrance security. That’s according to Scott Schneider, director of business and support services, who also identifies a need for security on restricted access areas.
In Neosho, Crowder College officials say it wants it students, which are spread out over nine counties, to feel part of the family.
“Nothing says family more than feeling safe and secure while at Crowder College, whether you are a student or an employee!”
Voting is open daily to the public through February 13. Find out more information about voting for your favorite school here.