A primary goal of Cal Poly Pomona's Police & Safety Advisory Committee is to provide consistent engagement opportunities between the University Police Department (UPD) and the campus community.

Committee members, comprised of student, staff, and faculty representatives along with Interim Police Chief Erik Munzenmaier, made quick progress on achieving just that last semester by hosting a 'Pastries with Public Safety' pop-up event and taking a detailed tour of the UPD building.

Both came about during brainstorming sessions at committee meetings, according to Megan Stang, associate vice president for student affairs and committee chair.

"There were several ideas that we thought would be helpful in creating more transparency as well as offer opportunities for Q&A from the campus to the University Police Department," Stang said.

While the committee was already reviewing UPD websites and editing existing forms, outreach events were next to be recommended. As such, UPD organized an in-depth tour, while a few committee members worked to host the pastries pop-up in partnership with UPD representatives and the Division of Student Affairs.

On the tour, committee members learned about the history and operations of the police department, complete with an in-depth breakdown of police vehicles and other equipment. Members also heard directly from Parking and Transportation staff members, Dispatch and several UPD officers.

At the Pastries with Public Safety pop-up on April 21, Chief Munzenmaier, UPD officers, and other department staff distributed free pastries and drinks to students, giving them the opportunity to ask questions about the department or learn how they can get involved.

Formed last fall, the committee's purpose is to ensure that UPD aligns with both the university's mission and values of inclusivity, community engagement and social and environmental responsibility. Members discuss issues related to police and law enforcement on campuses, review UPD policy and procedures, identify recommendations for engagement and provide training and education for the campus community on how issues of inclusion, equity and access can be addressed.

When the committee reconvenes this fall, more community outreach events are expected and will be communicated to the campus. For more information about the Police & Safety Advisory Committee, visit the official website or email studentaffairs@cpp.edu.