Happy Pride Month CWRU

At Case Western Reserve University, we’re proud to celebrate and uplift our LGBTQ+ community—not just this month, but every month. Pride Month is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of our LGBTQ+ community, and we’re honored to stand in solidarity with you.

As the Division of Public Safety, our mission goes beyond protection, we’re here to foster a welcoming environment for all. We recognize the importance of visibility, allyship, and creating spaces where everyone can live authentically and without fear.

To our LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff: We see you, we support you, and we’re committed to being part of a campus where you can thrive.

Wishing everyone a joyful and empowering Pride Month!

— The Division of Public Safety 💙

Wellness Walk & Talk with the Division of Public Safety

On June 17th from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, all are encouraged to join the Division’s Community Engagement Unit officers during the Faculty and Staff Wellness Walk and Talk Series. Attendees will learn about the available safety features on campus and receive a “backstage look” at the CWRU police operations. Join us for a VIP tour of the dispatch center, meet the officers, learn what’s inside a cruiser, and get to see a police drone in action! If you are interested in attending,be sure to sign up on the CWRU Faculty and Staff Wellness site.

Behind the Badge with Robert McLaughlin

This month, we’re excited to feature Robert McLaughlin, a key member of the Division of Public Safety at Case Western Reserve University. As the Program Manager for Transportation and Fleet Management, Robert plays a crucial role in ensuring our officers are equipped and ready to serve.

If you weren’t working at CWRU, what career path might you have pursued instead?
“I’ve always had a connection to military and law enforcement structure, and I enjoy working with my hands, repairing things, and solving problems. If I weren’t here, I’d likely still be close by as a police officer right here at CWRU.”

Can you share a favorite memory or what you enjoy most about working at Case?
“Every single day is a great moment for me. I get to work with an amazing team and fix things that help our officers complete their daily missions. It’s rewarding knowing my work directly supports their safety and success.”

What is your all-time favorite TV show?
“My favorite of all time has to be The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. More recently, I’d say The Big Bang Theory. It’s smart and hilarious.”

Thank you, Robert, for your dedication, hands-on expertise, and commitment to supporting public safety at CWRU!

Spartan Pride Shines Bright!🏅

A huge congratulations to our incredible CWRU sports teams for their outstanding achievements this season! Your hard work, dedication, and team spirit have taken you to new heights, and the entire campus is cheering you on. Whether on the field, court, or track—you're making Spartan Nation proud! Learn more about their amazing achievements here.

Pet Preparedness Month🐾

June is Pet Preparedness Month, making it the perfect time to ensure your furry family members are part of your emergency planning. Leaving pets behind during an evacuation puts them at serious risk of becoming lost, injured, or unable to survive on their own. Take time now to develop a plan that includes identifying pet-friendly shelters, establishing a buddy system with neighbors or friends, and making sure your pet is microchipped with current contact information. Prepare an emergency kit with your pet’s food, water, medications, grooming and sanitation supplies, and familiar comfort items like toys or bedding. Getting your pet used to their carrier ahead of time can also help reduce stress during an emergency. For more guidance, visit ready.gov/pets.

Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

With summer temperatures on the rise, it’s important to take precautions against extreme heat. Prolonged exposure to high heat and humidity—especially over 90°F—can lead to serious health risks like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Never leave people or pets in a parked car, even for a short time. If your building lacks air conditioning, locate cooling centers or shaded public spaces. Check on vulnerable individuals, such as older adults and those with medical conditions. For more tips, visit ready.gov/heat.

A Message from Chief Owens

As the weather warms up, it's a great time to get outside and enjoy all that our campus and community have to offer. With more events and activities happening, I want to remind everyone to stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings.

Please remember to lock your bikes, secure your valuables, and report anything suspicious. Whether you're attending a large gathering or just soaking up the sun, looking out for each other helps keep our community safe.

Let’s make this a safe and enjoyable season for all.

Stay safe,
Chief Owens

Division Whoa

The home at 1689 E. 115th Street, now CWRU's Division of Public Safety, was built in 1930 and once belonged to Emil Joseph, a prominent civic leader and president of the Excelsior Club. Known for his impressive library and community work, Joseph's legacy still echoes through the space.

From 1990 to 2015, it served as the regional headquarters for the American Heart Association, supporting life-saving research. Since 2015, it has housed Public Safety, continuing its tradition of serving and protecting the community.

Lightening Safety Awareness

Lightning is a serious hazard that can strike with little warning, especially during outdoor sports and  recreational activities. When thunder roars, it's crucial to go indoors—seek shelter in a substantial building or a hard-topped metal vehicle. Avoid open fields, high ground, isolated trees, and metal objects like fences or bleachers. Even if a storm seems distant, lightning can strike several miles away from the center of a storm. Planning ahead and monitoring weather conditions can help keep everyone safe. For more detailed information on staying safe during outdoor activities, visit lightningsafetycouncil.org.