Safety

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police

Megan Maneval — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 18:01:55 +0000

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police Megan Maneval Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:01

For the first time in nearly seven years, the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department is welcoming a new chief of police. Following a national search, Ashley Griffin will begin serving in the leadership role beginning on July 1. Griffin is expected to be sworn in this fall.

Griffin comes from the University of Texas at Austin, where she has served as assistant chief of police since January of 2024. Previously, Griffin was inspector and training coordinator at UT System Police for nearly eight years. She has been with the UT Austin Police Department since 2007, rising through the ranks from officer to sergeant before transitioning to the university system and then her current role as assistant chief.

“I am deeply honored to be selected to serve as the chief of police at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and be part of the Division of Public Safety,” Griffin said. “I am excited for this new endeavor and will focus on developing relationships with the �鶹��Ѱ��community, working collaboratively with all stakeholders and fostering an environment where students, staff, faculty and visitors are safe.”

Griffin is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. She holds a master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from Indiana University, where she started her law enforcement career as a part-time officer. It was through that experience that Griffin said she saw firsthand the importance of establishing trust within the community she patrolled.

“Ashley Griffin is deeply committed to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s holistic approach to public safety and will work to immediately understand and strengthen existing partnerships and procedures,” said Marlon Lynch, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s vice chancellor for public safety.

“We were fortunate to have four viable finalists with varying backgrounds and experiences. Ashley’s direct experience in the university setting and proven ability of having a collaborative approach were attributes that contributed to her selection as our successful candidate,” Lynch added.

CUPD’s new chief comes from the flagship campus of the University of Texas system. UT Austin is a public research university with approximately 53,000 students, including about 10,000 graduate students.

Similar to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, UT Austin police staff many large events across campus. Griffin oversaw various divisions as assistant chief, including recruiting and special events.

“I am looking forward to supporting �鶹��Ѱ��and the special events that are increasing on campus and to continuing the strong partnership with surrounding law enforcement agencies,” Griffin said. She will also focus on recruitment, training and wellness for first responders.

CUPD is a nationally accredited police agency operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doreen Jokerst previously served as CUPD’s chief, before she left to become chief of police in Overland Park, Kansas, in October 2024.

Lynch thanked Interim Chief of Police John Monahan for serving in the role during the transition period, ensuring no disruption of public safety services to the campus community.

The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department will welcome Ashley Griffin as its new chief of police. The public safety leader comes from the University of Texas at Austin and will begin on July 1.

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Understanding strategies and resources to de-escalate conflict, request support

Megan Maneval — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:22:45 +0000

Understanding strategies and resources to de-escalate conflict, request support Megan Maneval Wed, 04/09/2025 - 13:22

Conflict can be a natural part of campus life, but how we respond to it can determine whether it becomes an opportunity for learning or a situation that spirals. As faculty and staff, understanding and applying de-escalation strategies can help ensure students express themselves while maintaining a safe and productive learning environment.

Before attempting to calm a situation, it is important to understand why tensions rise in the first place. Escalation often stems from a perceived inability to have one’s needs met, overwhelmed feelings, a sense of hopelessness or feeling trapped. In these cases, the following techniques can be useful.

De-escalation techniques

When addressing an escalating situation, staying composed is crucial.

Keep your voice calm but assertive, and resist the urge to match an aggressive or frustrated tone.
Be mindful of your body language—gestures like smiling at inappropriate times or pointing a finger can inadvertently make a situation worse.
If you are supporting a student at a front desk, an event or another situation with multiple staff available and are feeling overwhelmed, it may be best to switch staff to maintain control of the conversation.
Avoid trying to rationalize with someone who is highly emotional or attempting to prove that you’re right. Raising your voice, or asserting control through forceful language can escalate tensions further.
Focus on de-escalating by responding selectively—answer questions that provide useful information but ignore insults or provocations. Providing choices where possible can also help, as it shifts some control back to the student in a productive way.
- For example, rather than saying, “You have to leave now,” try, “Would you prefer to step outside to continue this conversation, or take a few minutes to collect your thoughts first?”

Creating a constructive path forward

Once a situation is under control, it’s important to clearly outline expectations and next steps.

Asking cognitive rather than emotional questions, such as, “Can you explain why this situation is frustrating for you?” instead of, “How are you feeling?” can help redirect the conversation to problem-solving rather than venting.

Empathize with a student’s emotions while reinforcing behavioral expectations. When necessary, refer back to policies as a neutral framework for decisions, rather than making it seem personal.

De-escalation is not authority or control, it’s about guiding tense situations toward a resolution that allows students to feel heard while maintaining campus safety and order. When handled effectively, moments of conflict can become opportunities for learning and reflection.

By staying calm, setting clear expectations, and offering constructive solutions, campus professionals can foster a culture where expression and respect go hand in hand.

When situations escalate and stronger intervention is needed

Support and guidance

Call CUPD at 303-492-6666 to report disruptions.
Call 911 to report emergencies and/or threats to life/safety.

If the situation continues to escalate, or you need additional support for a classroom disruption or event, you should immediately call CUPD at 303-492-6666 to report the incident and request support from law enforcement. While any activities that disrupt university teaching, research or administrative functions are a violation of the university’s Campus Use of University Facilities policy, it’s imperative to prioritize the safety of everyone involved in such an incident.

In some situations, such as physical violence, threats of physical violence, or other scenarios where you are worried about your physical safety, the above de-escalation techniques are not appropriate. If you experience an emergency, call or text 911 for an immediate response.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Division of Public Safety also encourages all faculty and staff members to watch the CU: Run, Hide, Fight virtual active harmer course once each semester, to refresh their knowledge and better recognize and respond to situations where you may need to rely on your own actions to ensure your safety. Learn more and access the course here. Additional training opportunities will be shared with the campus as they become available.

As always, during emergencies, confirmed information and safety instructions are shared on the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts site.

Options and resources exist to help during times of tension. Be aware of strategies and support that’s available when conflict arises.

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Campus delays and closures: What you need to know

Anonymous — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 22:05:27 +0000

Campus delays and closures: What you need to know Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 04/04/2025 - 16:05

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s campus closure policy clarifies delays and closures caused by extreme weather, power outages and other emergencies. Here are the top things campus community members need to know.

Knowing operational status

Campus officials are typically able to announce delays or closures by 5:30 a.m.
Notifications of delays and closures are sent out via �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts, campus social media channels and, often, local broadcast media.
You can also view the university’s website for any change in operating status or call Buff Info at 303-492-INFO (4636), as well as read complete information on campus closing procedures.

Class cancellation and administrative closures

In the event of a campus closure due to severe weather, the alert will specify a class cancellation, administrative closure, or both.

When a class cancellation is issued, all in-person and remote (synchronous) classes are canceled for the day. Asynchronous online classes, which don’t have meeting times, will continue without cancellation.

Are you signed up for �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts?

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder students, you are automatically registered using your @colorado.edu email address. We ask that you add a mobile number during course registration periods and update as needed in Buff Portal. Get instructions on how to do so.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder faculty and staff, you are automatically registered using your @colorado.edu email address. Manage your mobile alerts number, and update as needed in your MyCUInfo portal. Get instructions on how to do so.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder partners with @cu.edu, @cufund.org, @cusys.edu, @ucdenver.edu or @cuanschutz.edu email domains must still register and maintain their information.

When an administrative closure is issued, administrative functions of the campus are closed, which may include campus events, facilities and venues. Essential services, unless otherwise noted, will continue to operate.

Administrative closures without course cancellations would be rare but may be issued during weekends or academic breaks when there are no regularly scheduled classes.

Delayed start

Sometimes, due to adverse conditions judged to be hazardous to normal campus operations, the campus will delay its opening.

For example, if the campus were to have a delayed start at 9:45 a.m., this would mean all in-person or remote (synchronously taught) classes, recitations, labs, etc. scheduled to begin before 9:45 a.m. would be canceled. Faculty would take steps to make up material and assignments missed during that time in a later class period. All classes, labs, recitations, etc. scheduled to begin at or after 9:45 a.m. would be held as normal. Students with questions about making up assignments should talk to their instructor.

How does a delayed opening apply during the 2024–25 academic year?

Any in-person or remote (synchronously taught) class or lab scheduled to start at or after a delayed start time will meet as usual.
In-person and remote (synchronously taught) classes and labs that begin before the delayed start time are canceled, including those continuing past the delayed start.
Online classes taught asynchronously, without a specific start time, are not affected by the delay.

Employee guidance

Administrative leave is granted to all regular employees for their scheduled work hours during the period of administrative closure. Employees may reference the Inclement Weather Guidance from Human Resources for more information, including requirements and guidance for essential and critical services employees who may be required to work during a delay or closure per the updated Campus Closure Policy.

Most faculty and staff are not expected to work during an administrative closure or delayed start regardless of work modality. In the event that multi-campus, virtual meetings not pertaining to the closure are scheduled, communication will be sent to impacted employees as early as possible. All other meetings are canceled, regardless of modality (i.e., virtual).

Secure connection from anywhere

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder's VPN service provides a secure connection to the campus network from any location, as long as the device has an internet connection.

Safety tips

Clearing the way

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s snow removal webpage now includes a snow webcam livestream and snow removal map.

Plan ahead, give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. Traffic moves slowly in snowy conditions; leave early to arrive on time. Rushing can lead to accidents or slips and falls.

Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. Opt for boots or shoes with a sturdy and slip-resistant outsole.

Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles, climbing or descending stairs, entering or leaving buildings. Hold on to a handrail on stairs, and hold on to your vehicle while exiting and entering it.

Walk on designated walkways. Don’t take shortcuts over snow piles or areas where snow and ice removal is not feasible. You may have to use different routes than usual.

Walk safely on snow or ice. Take small steps: Keep your steps small and shuffle your feet rather than taking long strides. This helps maintain balance and reduces the risk of slipping.

Walk flat-footed. Instead of walking with your weight on your heels or toes, distribute your weight evenly across your foot with each step.

Resources

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Division of Public Safety, Facilities Management, the city of Boulder and the Colorado Department of Transportation offer several helpful resources and reminders for when freezing temperatures arrive and snowflakes start flying.

Buff Bus riders should check the Transit app for campus bus updates and reroute alerts. Commuting students, faculty and staff riding to/from campus via RTD bus routes are encouraged to sign up for RTD Rider Alerts.
Facilities Management offers an interactive site where you can view current snow levels on campus, report problem areas and more.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Department of Emergency Management, part of the Division of Public Safety, features several weather safety tips on its website.
The city of Boulder’s snow and ice response page features key things you can do to stay informed and be prepared for a snow event.
The Colorado Department of Transportation includes winter driving safety tips, reminders and road-condition updates on its website.
The latest Boulder weather forecast information can be found on the National Weather Service website.

Springtime along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains can bring volatile weather conditions. Learn more about campus operations during weather events.

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5 things everyone should know about sexual assault

Anonymous — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

5 things everyone should know about sexual assault Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:00

Health and Wellness Services

Sexual assault is all too common and can have lasting impacts on individuals and communities. As we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April, here are five things everyone should know about sexual assault.

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Free overdose prevention supplies available

Megan Maneval — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:43:54 +0000

Free overdose prevention supplies available Megan Maneval Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:43

Free naloxone and fentanyl test strips are available around campus. Learn more from Health & Wellness Services.

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Register your party, avoid potential drama and tickets

Anonymous — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:36:33 +0000

Want to host a party without worrying about noise complaints or expensive tickets? Register your party with Off-Campus Housing and Neighborhood Relations and the Boulder Police Department.

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4 ways to look out for your friends this weekend

Anonymous — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:46:15 +0000

4 ways to look out for your friends this weekend Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/04/2025 - 07:46

De-stressing and letting loose with friends can be fun. However, it’s also important to keep your group together and ensure everyone makes it home safely. Here are some ways you can look out for your friends.

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Commitment to campus safety, comprehensive safety resources

Megan Maneval — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:07:16 +0000

Commitment to campus safety, comprehensive safety resources Megan Maneval Wed, 02/26/2025 - 06:07

With recent incidents occurring on and near campus, safety is at the forefront of many conversations, and we want to ensure our campus community has the resources it needs.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and the city of Boulder are committed to the safety of all community members, on campus and off. The university functions as a “city within a city,” supporting a population of approximately 38,000 students and 12,000 faculty and staff members in the heart of Boulder.

Our �鶹��Ѱ��Police Department serves campus 24/7 by foot, bike, motorcycle and vehicle, and works diligently with the university community and surrounding agencies to ensure a prompt and coordinated law enforcement response. Campus community members are also encouraged to continue to follow preventative safety practices, which may include using the free mobile safety app, utilizing services such as �鶹��Ѱ��NightRide, walking in groups and, as always, being aware of your surroundings and reporting any concerns immediately by calling or texting 911 or calling CUPD’s non-emergency line at 303-492-6666.

Comprehensive safety resources

As part of the Division of Public Safety, CUPD is one component of our holistic approach to safety. The division’s Department of Threat Assessment also works to safeguard our students, faculty and staff through continuous monitoring and mitigation. All DPS services play an important role, integrating public safety tools and resources to meet the evolving needs of the campus community.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder has several robust processes for individuals to share concerns and request support, including several reporting options through CUPD, the Don't Ignore It website and anonymously through �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe2Tell. When concerns are reported, they are evaluated and addressed through tailored processes depending on the involved populations.

Anyone with a colorado.edu email address is automatically registered to receive emergency and safety alert (timely warning) emails. Additionally, we highly encourage you to add your mobile phone number to receive text alerts by going to the Buff Portal or your MyCUInfo portal.

Community members also have options for receiving information about emergencies. Review the three levels of �鶹��Ѱ��alerts and notifications, bookmark the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts website and follow @CUBoulderPolice on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram.

When emergencies occur off campus in areas of high student populations, and information can be confirmed with the lead agency, such as the Boulder Police Department, those registered to receive the university’s emergency notifications will receive updates.

If you're in the Boulder area on a regular basis, read about emergency preparedness and sign up for city of Boulder alerts. You can also opt in to countywide alerts to ensure you’re receiving the latest emergency updates on off-campus incidents.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is committed to the safety of our community; we are not immune to some criminal or concerning situations.

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Coroner identifies body of �鶹��Ѱ��student

Elizabeth Lock — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 23:54:48 +0000

Coroner identifies body of �鶹��Ѱ��student Elizabeth Lock Tue, 02/18/2025 - 16:54

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is saddened to learn that the county coroner has identified the individual who was recently recovered in Boulder Canyon as Megan Trussell. The sheriff’s office released an additional update stating it does not believe there is or was a threat to the community.

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Missing student updates

Megan Maneval — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:34:32 +0000

Missing student updates Megan Maneval Fri, 02/14/2025 - 05:34

The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department is working with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to locate a missing student, Megan Trussell—last seen wearing a blue/gray jacket, dark colored yoga-style pants and white platform sneakers. Those with any information: call 303-492-6666 and reference CUPD case No. 2025-0291.

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Safety

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police

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