Campus Security FAQs

What is the difference between Campus Security and the local police?

Campus Security at Whitman is part of the Student Life division, and is not a police department. Security Officers are unarmed staff members of the college who primarily focus on:

• Providing and maintaining a safe and secure campus environment
• Providing a variety of support services for students, staff and faculty
• Serving as first responders for campus concerns and emergencies
• Upholding compliance with campus policies and expectations
• Local law enforcement, such as the Walla Walla Police Department, are sworn officers with full policing powers, including making arrests, carrying firearms and enforcing laws beyond campus. Whitman Campus Security only involves local police in specific cases.

When does Whitman involve local law enforcement?

Campus Security may contact local police in a variety of situations, including but not limited to:

• Possible crimes, such as vandalism, credible threats, theft and burglary
• An incident that takes place on public property that is within the campus Clery geography, such as a protest blocking a street
• Health or safety emergencies, such as missing persons
• A significant disruption to campus operations that has not been successfully resolved despite efforts by college staff

These contacts are rare and handled with care, knowing that police involvement may be a source of concern for members of our community. Campus Security officers are trained to evaluate when police involvement is necessary. Law enforcement engagement for matters beyond health and safety emergencies requires the authorization of the Director of Security or the Dean of Students.

Can a Campus Security officer ask to see my student ID and am I required to show it?

Yes, Campus Security officers may ask to see your student ID, and if they do you must provide it to them.

Campus Security officers may ask for your student ID in the course of carrying out their responsibilities, which include but are not limited to:

• Responding to emergencies or community concerns such as theft, medical or welfare checks, and trespassing
• Documenting the parties involved or witness of potential policy violations. Depending on the situation, the documentation will be provided to Human
• Resources, the Equity and Compliance Office, or the Dean of Students
• When clearing campus buildings to verify an individual’s approval to stay after closing hours

Failure to comply with the directions of college officials acting in performance of their duties is prohibited by the Students Rights and Responsibilities, and not providing student ID when requested could be subject to consequences through the conduct system. The requirement to provide student ID when requested is common policy at nearly all colleges across the country.

Security officers ask for ID to help document situations and follow up when necessary—not to target or profile students. If you're unsure why you’re being asked to show your ID, it’s okay to politely ask for clarification.

How does Campus Security interact with student activists and protestors?

Campus Security’s primary role during student activism and protest is to support the safety of everyone involved while also helping to prevent damage to campus spaces and facilities. Officers aim to maintain a respectful presence and do not interfere with peaceful expression or demonstration.

When protests or gatherings take place, Campus Security may monitor the area to ensure that college policies are followed, that individuals remain safe—especially in overnight or high-traffic situations, or where individuals who are not members of the campus community are involved—and that campus operations and access to spaces can continue. Their goal is to uphold both student rights and community responsibilities in a way that reflects Whitman’s values.

If you're planning a protest or demonstration and have questions, you're encouraged to connect with Student Affairs or Campus Security ahead of time to help coordinate safety and logistical considerations.

What kind of information does Campus Security gather for documentation purposes?

Depending on the situation, Campus security may gather the following types of information:

• Names, contact information and student IDs of involved individuals (including witnesses)
• Photographs of activities taking place (which may include involved individuals), vandalism or graffiti, or other impacts to spaces and facilities
• Statements and descriptions regarding the incident or concern

This information is kept confidential for use only in Whitman’s follow-up process, which is carried out by the Dean of Students office.

Does Whitman ever bring in outside private security?

Yes. While Whitman’s Campus Security team covers most needs, the college may hire outside private security for support during:

• Large campus events
• Emergencies
• Times of increased concern or limited staffing

These security professionals are not part of the college staff and do not have access to student records. Their role is typically limited to monitoring for safety issues and reporting concerns to Whitman’s Campus Security.

Whitman requires that any outside security firm follow all campus policies, including restrictions on weapons on campus. If private security personnel collect any information (e.g., photographs), they are expected to treat it confidentially and share it only with Whitman Campus Security for appropriate follow-up.

Who should I talk to if I have a concern about how a Campus Security officer treated me?

If you ever feel that a Campus Security officer—or any staff member—treated you unfairly, please report it to Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Security Greg Powell.

Additional options for reporting concerns about Campus Security are:

• Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Kazi Joshua
• Associate Vice President of Human Resources Erika Cerda
• Director of Equity and Compliance Cassandre Beccai (especially for identity-related concerns, which can also be reported through the Bias Reporting system)
• Or use the college’s Grievance Policy process

These concerns are taken seriously, and the college will always investigate them thoroughly.