From: Megan Koeth Date: February 13 Subject: The Division of Public Safety Newsletter
Learn CPR and Help Save Lives!
The month of February is American Heart Month, a perfect time to spread awareness about heart health and learn the simple actions that can save lives. Each February, the Division of Public Safety offers a series of free Adult CPR and AED classes on campus. This year, we are offering both Hands-Only CPR training (non-certified) and Adult CPR/AED certification courses.
By taking a course, you can double or even triple a person's chance of survival during cardiac arrest. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a parent, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, learning CPR empowers you to take swift, effective action when seconds matter most. By signing up for a class today, you not only contribute to a healthier community but also equip yourself with the confidence and skills to save a life.
In recognition of Black History Month, we want to highlight the life of alum John Sykes Fayette. Fayette holds a defining place in CWRU’s history as the first Black graduate of Western Reserve College, completing his studies in 1836 after arriving in Hudson in 1832. His time on campus was marked by active engagement in abolitionist efforts, reflecting a lifelong commitment to justice, education, and community leadership. He was also an educator and minister.
After graduation, Fayette continued his impact in Ontario, Canada, where he founded several Presbyterian churches and a school he later called, “Wellington Institute", extending his influence across both faith and educational spheres. Today, his legacy is honored on our campus through the John Sykes Fayette House (Fayette House), a residential hall named in recognition of his trailblazing contributions. His story embodies resilience, scholarship, and service values that continue to shape the university’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
Behind the Badge with John D'Angelo
Public Safety Driver John D’Angelo brings warmth, experience, and a genuine love for people to his role here at CWRU. After recently celebrating his three year anniversary with the university, he continues to be energized by the daily interactions he shares with students, staff, and coworkers. Before joining CWRU, John built a diverse career path that started in real estate appraisal and later shifted into sporting goods sales. Outside of work, he’s a proud family man who enjoys Cleveland sports, live entertainment, and time with his grandsons. We asked John a few questions to get to know him a little better, and here’s what he had to say.
Q: How long have you been with the University, and what is your favorite part of your job? A: I recently celebrated my 3 year anniversary here at CWRU. My favorite part of my job is dealing and interacting with students, staff, and coworkers.
Q: What did you do before working at CWRU? A: My first real job was as a real estate appraiser with the Cuyahoga County Auditor's Office before moving on and becoming a sporting goods sales representative.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do in Cleveland? A: Spending time with my two grandsons and three kids on the West Side. I enjoy Browns, Cavs, and Guardians games, Playhouse Square, live music and concerts, hanging out with friends, and I’m currently planning a trip to Italy.
Q: What is your fondest sports moment? A: The Cavaliers winning the 2016 NBA Championship. Browns and Guardians… still waiting!
Simple Heart Healthy Tips:
Move more, sit less: Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement each day.
Eat heart-healthy foods: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your diet.
Manage stress: Take breaks and deep breaths to be mindful and reduce stress on your heart and body.
Get enough sleep: Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep every night.
Do not ignore warning signs: Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or unusual fatigue should be taken seriously.
Try SafeRide!
Safe Ride is here to help students, faculty, and staff get around campus safely during the evening hours. Running seven days a week from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m., Safe Ride offers a reliable and welcoming way to travel across campus after dark, so you can focus on your evening plans with peace of mind. Book your first ride today!
Service Area
The service area for the Safe Ride program is located on this map.
Request a Ride
There are three ways to request a Safe Ride between the hours of 6 p.m. and 3 a.m.:
Online dating has become a common way for people to meet, offering convenience, connection, and a chance to explore relationships beyond their usual circles. Many enjoy the flexibility of chatting on their own time and getting to know someone before deciding whether to meet in person. At the same time, digital spaces can blur boundaries, making it important to stay mindful about what you share and how you engage.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
Limit personal details on your profile
Verify matches through social media or video chat
Meet in public places for first in‑person interactions
Tell a friend your plans and trust your instincts
Message from Our Executive Director
As we begin Heart Month this February, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of maintaining strong heart health. Our work in Public Safety requires sustained focus, resilience, and energy, and these qualities are strengthened when we commit to our personal well‑being. Caring for your heart begins with simple, consistent habits such as staying hydrated to support circulation, choosing heart‑healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and whole grains, and managing stress through brief breathing exercises throughout the day. Ensuring adequate sleep allows the heart to recover, while limiting added salt and sugar contributes to long‑term cardiovascular wellness.
In addition to these daily practices, incorporating indoor cardio activities can further support heart health. Taking brisk walks in hallways is an easy way to increase your heart rate, and climbing stairs provides an effective endurance‑building workout. Low‑impact aerobics can be performed in small spaces, while marching in place offers a simple option for staying active at any time. Light stretching combined with basic body‑weight movements also promotes flexibility and cardiovascular strength. Together, these accessible steps contribute to improved heart function and sustained energy throughout the day.
Thank you for your continued dedication to the safety and well‑being of our community. I encourage each of you to use Heart Month as a reminder to prioritize your health and to support one another in building a culture of wellness across our campus.
Download Spartan Safe and Spartan Ride Apps
No matter where you are or what situation you're in, support is just a tap away. The Spartan Safe app provides 24/7 access to safety resources and emergency assistance anytime you need it.
The Spartan Ride app makes getting around campus easier and safer. It combines on-demand Safe Ride services with real-time shuttle schedules, helping you find the quickest and most convenient route to your destination—all in one easy-to-use app.
Division Whoa!
The Division of Public Safety is proud to share that we have six highly skilled instructors certified in Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid! Thanks to the dedication and expertise of these instructors, all Public Safety officials on campus are fully certified, strengthening our community’s readiness and response capabilities.
Did you Know?
Case Western Reserve University has over 181 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across campus! AEDs are portable devices used to help people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest they analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if needed, deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat.
Having so many AEDs readily available boosts the chances of survival in emergencies and shows CWRU’s commitment to campus safety!
Check out our AED map to see their locations across campus!