Public Safety Offers Cougar Police Academy for Faculty, Staff
The Department of Public Safety is offering the second Cougar Police Academy for faculty and staff.

The Department of Public Safety is offering a second cohort of faculty and staff a “behind the shield” view of campus law enforcement operations and techniques through its Cougar Police Academy program. The five-week academy is designed to enhance employees’ understanding of the systems that keep the campus community safe.

Held from 4–6 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Public Safety Headquarters (89 St. Philip St.), the academy starts on Sept. 17, 2025. In addition to choosing a date and a two-hour time slot between Sept. 17 and Oct. 15 for a ride-along with a Public Safety officer, participants will attend the following individual sessions:
- Sept. 17: Campus Relationships, Patrol Operations, Equipment
- Sept. 24: Use of Force, Legal Considerations, Investigations, Drone Operations
- Oct. 1: Weapons, Less-Than-Lethal Demos
- Oct. 8: Role of IT, Communications, Crime Scenes
- Oct. 15: Active Agressor Scenario
The Cougar Police Academy will culminate with a graduation ceremony on Oct. 22, 2025.
Attendance is limited to 20 participants, so faculty and staff are encouraged to apply quickly. Public Safety is taking names for its standby list; to apply, email Chief Chip Searson or Deputy Chief Rusty Myers!