Increased safety for students, faculty, staff and visitors is the goal of ongoing security projects at Fresno Pacific University funded by state and federal grants.
Starting in 2021 and continuing through this fall, FPU has received annual federal grants of $150,000 each, in addition to a $200,000 state grant in 2021 for a total of $800,000. Federal money comes from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), and state funds come from the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP). Both agencies help nonprofit organizations increase their physical security.
Grants are being used for large physical security projects on the main campus, including installing control access systems in Jost Hall, McDonald Hall and AIMS Hall (more buildings will be added), expanding and improving the camera system and ultimately increasing campus fencing to a height of eight feet around the entire 50-acre campus.
“The well-being of all members of the university community is paramount, and we applaud the initiative of our campus safety staff,” said André Stephens, FPU president.
These grants are competitive, and proposals take a great deal of time and work. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Javier Campos, campus safety director. He singled out officer Andrew Rodriguez. “His efforts have been instrumental in securing this funding. There is no doubt that his work will help make our community a safer place.”
The CSNSGP provides funding for physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations at risk for attacks and hate crimes due to ideology, beliefs or mission. The available funding is $76,000,000, and nonprofits can request up to $250,000 per location for a total of $500,000.
NSGP grants are appropriated annually through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They are intended to help nonprofit organizations increase physical security against acts of terrorism or other extremist attacks.
PHOTO: Javier Campos (left), director of campus safety, and Andrew Rodriguez, the campus safety officer who has a written a successful series of grants to fund projects including new fencing around the main FPU campus, at an area where 5-foot fencing is being replaced by 8-foot fencing. (FPU photo)