Statement from President Bailey on Ohio State Shooting

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ohio State University family after the tragic events of today. On behalf of the entire Texas Tech community, I extend our deepest sympathy to the faculty, staff and students at OSU.

I also want the Texas Tech community to know that we make every effort to keep you safe. Please be vigilant and aware of safety procedures. Do not hesitate to call 911 to report any behavior you consider suspicious.

The university has implemented an Emergency Alert Notification System to communicate important alerts and emergency response information to students, faculty and staff. All faculty, staff and students are automatically enrolled in this system with their eRaider e-mail address and the primary phone number listed in their registration/employment materials. However, it is important to keep your information current. To do so, go to www.ttu.edu/emergencyalert.

Please note some of the safety features that are in place on our campus:

• There are resources such as the Employee Assistance Program available to individuals dealing with difficult situations. We hope that those in need will take advantage of this program.
• A threat assessment committee meets to evaluate any known type of threat in the work place.
• Texas Tech police patrol the campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Safety officers, as well as university police, patrol the residence halls.
• Community advisors in the residence halls are trained in safety procedures and are well-practiced in communicating quickly and effectively with residents in a time of emergency.
• More than 90 Blue Phones are placed at strategic locations throughout the campus. These phones are direct lines to the Texas Tech Police Department.
• The Texas Tech Police Department regularly reviews and practices scenarios involving armed subjects and they are fully supported by city, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Office of Communications and Marketing works closely with local media to announce all campus emergency information. The home page, www.ttu.edu, and online Emergency Communications Center will always list the latest emergency information.

Guy Bailey
President