New look for campus security

The campus security department will soon be sporting a new look.

According to Sgt. Jeff Ebel, security uniform/equipment coordinator, the campus security department will begin wearing a new uniform this spring.

The current uniform consists of a light blue buttoned shirt with navy pants. This has been the standard campus security uniform since 1971 — the only change has been to the uniform patch.

“In early 2014, Officer Troy Rothanzl presented the idea for the new uniform to the Security Management Team,” Sgt. Ebel said. “I suggested a trial run, with 10 members of security testing the uniform for performance and wear. Once the trial period was over, the management team reviewed the comments, suggestions and recommendations before approving the new uniform.”

The new uniforms are modern, comfortable and lightweight, Ebel said. They will consist of a blue polo shirt, navy BDU (“battle dress uniform”) pants and a nylon duty belt. The polo shirt will display CAMPUS SECURITY on the back in a reflective material.

Cpl. Tina Cooper was one of the people who wore the trial uniforms, and she said she received a lot of positive feedback from members of the campus community.

“And they’re 10 times more comfortable,” she said.

“We’re letting the campus know ahead of time about the change in uniform to avoid any confusion,” Ebel said. “We want to ensure the campus community that the services provided by security will remain the same.”