Public safety emphasizes commitment to service

Director of Public Safety Steven Healy and members of his staff were joined by President Shirley M. Tilghman for a presentation of the department's core values to the University community on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

The ceremony, which grew from a strategic planning initiative led by Healy upon his arrival in January 2003, outlined the seven core values that the department emphasizes in its work with the University community: integrity, respect, service, mentoring, professionalism, accountability and appreciation.

In addition to Healy, three members of the department -- representing a wide range of experience -- offered testimonials to express how those values guide their work: Duncan Harrison, acting associate director and a 20-year veteran of the department; Robert Tallman, who has served as a campus patrolman for more than 30 years; and Paul Krzewinski, a public safety officer in his second week on the job.

Healy noted that the department is focused on strengthening its problem-solving skills, community partnerships and professional development for public safety staff members. He said the purpose of the planning initiative and the dedication ceremony was "to recommit ourselves to the ideals of Princeton University: Princeton in the nation's service, and in the service of all nations. Just as the University has made a commitment to service so, too, do we make that same commitment."

The ceremony, held in the Faculty Room in Nassau Hall, was attended by University cabinet members, staff members and students, as well as representatives of local law enforcement departments.

Tilghman said public safety's planning initiative is "very much in the spirit of what I try to get the entire University to do."

"We always have to assess how well we are doing and how we could do better," she said.

Tilghman commended the department for its success in making Princeton's campus a safe environment. That success, she said, helps Princeton recruit top students and allows the University to attract important figures to campus, citing recent visits by U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell and Afghan President Hamid Karzai, which carried unique security challenges.

"I would be proud to live my life by the seven values you have defined for yourselves," Tilghman added. "These are seven values that I hope everybody at this University believes in and exercises in the way they go about their daily lives."