DSU named 7th safest public university in US

October 28, 2020

StateUniversity.com has ranked Dakota State University as the seventh safest public university in the U.S. and safest campus in the state of South Dakota for 2020.

A low local crime rate and a lack of aggravated assaults, arrests, arson, murder, vehicle theft and more influenced DSU’s ranking. StateUniversity.com utilized Cleary and FBI data to analyze 1,585 colleges and universities safety levels to create the rankings.

Dakota State provides safety through security cameras installed throughout campus, residence halls controlled by card access, and an evening patrol done six nights a week.

In January 2019 Dakota State introduced a new program Campus Watch, featuring two uniformed employees to aid students, staff, and faculty between the hours of 8 p.m. and midnight Tuesday through Sunday. Campus Watch employees complete security checks, provide accompaniment across campus, and assist with issues like jumping someone’s car.

The Campus Watch program was created by Jim Jacobsen, vice president for Student Affairs and Heath Abraham, university safety resource officer, to provide safety and security personnel in the evening hours to everyone on campus.

“We value safety at Dakota State and are proud to provide a secure campus for our students and staff,” Jacobsen said.