The safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty, staff and visitors is a top priority at SUNY Oneonta. That means protecting the people and property of SUNY Oneonta while fostering a campus culture where everyone feels respected and secure. Through the coordinated efforts of the University Police Department (UPD) and campus partners, we provide a safe, responsive and welcoming environment for everyone who lives, learns and works here.
When I visited campus, I loved how very safe and beautiful it was. I feel comfortable at all hours of the day walking around. I've literally forgotten things around here for a day or two and they always remain untouched! It's peaceful here.
Professional and Prepared
UPD police officers are held to the highest standards in New York State and receive continuous training to stay current on best practices, including in emergency medical response, first aid and crisis intervention.
Our sworn officers have full arrest powers and patrol campus on foot, by bike, and in vehicles 24/7, making them a familiar and approachable presence. Whether it’s 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., someone’s always on watch.
Professionally trained dispatchers coordinate timely responses to emergencies across campus. Whether you accidentally locked yourself out of your room or would like a safety escort, help is just a call away.
Blue Light Emergency Phones
Did you know? UPD operates a network of Blue Light Emergency Phones across campus for immediate assistance (look for the small blue towers), so even if you didn’t have your phone, you could reach police.
Safety in Residence Halls
- All residence hall entrances are locked 24/7 and require key card access.
- Security phones are located outside entrances for guest check-ins.
- Trained Residential Life staff work closely with University Police and emergency services to address safety concerns and respond to incidents.
Emergency Communication
Students, faculty and staff can sign up for Oneonta’s emergency alert system, “O-Alert,” which delivers timely updates via text, email and voice message.
Training and Education
University Police offers safety programs throughout the school year, including self-defense, crime prevention, and drug and alcohol education.
Many campus offices offer educational programs on issues including alcohol and other substance abuse, fire safety, other dimensions of personal safety and related topics.
Community and Partnerships
SUNY Oneonta is located on a hill within the city of Oneonta, a close-knit community with a population of just over 15,000. UPD works closely with the City of Oneonta Police, Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, and New York State Police to ensure coordinated safety efforts both on and off campus.
Inclusivity
We believe that safety includes not just physical well-being, but the right to belong and be yourself. At Oneonta, our commitment to this includes:
- Multicultural Student Initiatives
- Bias response protocols
- Safe spaces and affinity groups
- Collaborations between University Police and DEI staff
- Training for staff/faculty on inclusive practices
- Support resources for students facing identity-based harassment