Andrew Powell, the new director of Campus Security, graduated from York College with a degree in criminal justice. He then went on to work as a security officer at Georgetown University for nine years, where he was eventually promoted to lieutenant of security.

Powell attended the American University Washington College of Law in D.C. and graduated with a degree in law. Powell kept his security job even though he moved back to York with his family. However, the commute time to work meant he had to live in Washington during the week and only got to see his family on the weekend.  This proved to be too much to handle, so when a position opened up closer to home, he jumped at the opportunity.

Since arriving at Etown, he has made a few changes which he hopes will make campus security more efficient and accessible for the student community.  For example, guest registration forms were previously only available at the campus security office. This year they are available online for all students.  Item registration forms are also available this semester through campus security.  Students are now able to register items such as laptops and bicycles in case they are lost or stolen.  This will make the officers’ jobs easier when lost and stolen items are reported.

Also, students and members of the community can now stay connected and up-to-date with all that is going on with campus security through their new Twitter page.  Students are encouraged to stay connected by following @etownsecurity.

Powell stressed that safety is a “joint effort” in which students are also responsible for what happens on campus. He believes school-run programs that teach students the importance of making smart decisions about issues such as drugs and alcohol are key in maintaining a safe community.  However, because he came from working in a much larger campus at Georgetown University, he does not believe he will have too much trouble in dealing with drugs and alcohol at Etown.

Powell has a great understanding of how college campuses work and says that he loves working in this type of environment.

“I look forward to continuing a great relationship between security and the student community,” Powell said.