Illinois State Students on Patrol

Students at Illinois State University are taking campus safety seriously. Beginning this month, the Students on Patrol (STOP) program is making a comeback.

A collaborative effort of the Student Government Association (SGA) and Illinois State University Police, STOP is a registered student organization that is returning after an eight-year hiatus. STOP members will escort students at night and report suspicious activity, medical emergencies and other safety and security problems. They will also help with traffic control at events and educate people on tailgating rules.

Several training sessions have been held, and 42 members are participating for fall semester. Patrols have begun for the semester, operating Sunday-Wednesday 8 p.m to 1 a.m. and Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.

The renewed interest in STOP emerged from several perspectives. Katie Colaric, an SGA senator that ran on a campus safety platform, approached University Police to find out what SGA could do to enhance student safety.

“Safety is a community issue, and as students we are part of the community and not just ISU. We have a responsibility to step up and play a role in safety,” said Colaric.

University Police Lieutenant Aaron Woodruff noted that safety themes surfaced with the Illinois State University Diversity Task force that convened in spring 2009. There was also input from parents, faculty and staff.

STOP also promotes careers in public service and safety. Several academic departments on campus have taken an interest in STOP, and specialized training and guest speakers will be part of offerings to students.

SGA President Matt Spialek said that there is a perception of safety on campus, but STOP provides a way for students to give back to the community and gain real world experience.

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