RCC community: Prioritizing safety for a secure future

Each year, in accordance with the Campus Security Act of 1990 and the Cleary Act, Randolph Community College publishes a Campus Safety and Security Report along with conducting an annual review of all campus safety plans. The report was presented at the College’s Board of Trustees Meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 20, with only one incident over the past three years and zero unfounded crimes.

“I’ve been involved in the submission of Cleary Reports for many years, so I’m very familiar with it,” Vice President for Administrative Services Richard Weldon said, noting that the criminal offenses needed for the report include public property, burglary, homicide, sex offenses, and hate crimes and, if a college is found to underreport or not report, the Department of Education can charge a college up to $67,544 per fine and pull funding and financial aid. “The good news is that we have none to report this year, and in the three-year period on the report there’s only been one incident and that was a drug abuse violation. That is extremely good. It’s an indication to the students that are coming here or who might want to come here, if they or their parents look at these reports, they can get a good idea of just how safe a college — and the area around it — it is.”

President Dr. Shah Ardalan, who started at the College in July, highlighted RCC’s dedication to safety.

“I want to emphasize our unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our college community,” RCC President Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “Our annual Campus Safety and Security Report is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our security personnel, staff, and the entire college community. It is our goal to provide a safe and secure learning environment where all students, faculty, and staff can thrive without fear. We understand that safety is paramount for a successful educational experience, and we will continue to prioritize it.”

Matthew Needham, Director of Safety and Emergency Preparedness, said a safe campus is only possible if everyone is on board.

“Campus safety is not a job that can be done by just one individual or even a select group of people,” he said. “We have been building a culture of safety for years, which is why we have been successful in creating a safe environment for our community to learn and work together.”

Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs start throughout the year, both in person and online. For more information, call 336-633-0200 or visit www.randolph.edu and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.