Governor Kathy Hochul directed over 200 New York colleges and universities to bolster their emergency preparedness plans ahead of the fall semester on Monday, August 26. During a call with campus leaders and public safety experts, Hochul emphasized the need for robust safety protocols to protect students amid rising concerns over campus security and potential protests. The governor reiterated her commitment to ensuring that all students can attend classes without fear.
Governor Hochul’s directive builds on her previous actions from Spring 2024, when she instructed colleges to review and update their emergency response plans. Protests at universities across the nation have erupted due to the ongoing apartheid and military attack by Israel on Gaza, an occupied land with no government and no military, following an attack on October 7th. The initiative comes in response to an increasing need to address campus safety issues, including the potential for violence, hate, and harassment. “Public safety is my top priority, and as classes resume, it is essential that all students feel safe and are free from harm,” Hochul stated. She highlighted the importance of collaboration between state officials and campus leaders to ensure a secure educational environment.
Throughout the summer, the New York State Police and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) have worked closely with colleges to enhance emergency planning. This includes conducting training sessions aligned with the United States Department of Education’s Campus Planning Toolkit, which offers guidelines for maintaining safety while upholding civil liberties. These efforts aim to equip campuses with the necessary resources to respond effectively to crises.
In addition to updating emergency response plans, the DHSES has been actively assessing the preparedness of private colleges and universities through surveys and partnerships. The focus has been on ensuring that institutions have threat assessment and management teams capable of conducting comprehensive risk evaluations. Governor Hochul has also made it clear that hate, bias, and violence have no place on New York’s campuses, reinforcing the state’s stance against discrimination.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James echoed the governor’s sentiments, stating, “The safety and security of all New Yorkers remains our top priority, and we have zero tolerance for any individuals that perpetuate hate crimes, acts of violence, and harassment within our communities.” This stance is further supported by the leadership of SUNY, CUNY, and private college associations, all of whom have expressed their commitment to maintaining safe and inclusive campuses.
As the fall semester approaches, Governor Hochul’s directive serves as a proactive measure to ensure that New York’s higher education institutions are well-prepared to handle any emergencies. By prioritizing safety and fostering a collaborative approach, the state aims to create a secure and supportive environment for all students, faculty, and staff across its campuses.
