Congratulations to the Drexel Dragons class of 2022! In this edition, Drexel Public Safety (DPS) would like to recognize all graduates, spotlight some of their own, and remind you of important summer travel safety tips. Additionally, under the Community Commitments section, please check out the resources DPS offers to our Dragons. Plus, read a farewell message from outgoing Vice President for Public Safety Eileen Behr.
Farewell Message From Chief Behr
As I prepare to depart Drexel at the end of this month for a new stage of my life and career, I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the Drexel community, our neighbors and community partners for the honor and privilege to serve in the position as Police Chief and Vice President for Drexel Public Safety.
My time at Drexel has been marked with times of challenges and some triumphs, but most importantly with developing wonderful partnerships and alliances. The triumphs come from teamwork, patience and resilience. Any single success was achieved only through teamwork, within Public Safety and with so many partners across the community.
I will always cherish the many partnerships and friendships developed over the past eight years. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to work beside so many amazing individuals and learn so much from so many people.
Thank you for the many positive memories and cherished friendships,
Eileen Behr
Summer Travel: Have Fun, Stay Safe!
With summer right around the corner, many Dragons will be traveling near and far to visit friends and family, travel abroad, and, in the case of the class of 2022, begin their post-grad lives. No matter how or where you’re traveling, Drexel Public Safety encourages you not only to have a great time, but also to practice common sense and take the following precautions on your journey.
Airport Safety
- Walk with confidence, keep your head up, and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Never leave your luggage unattended.
- Immediately report any suspicious activity, including abandoned bags, to airport security.
- Only use taxis and transportation services with official markings.
- Remember to check the COVID guidelines or requirements for wherever you’re going, especially if you’re traveling internationally.
Driving Safety
- Plan your route in advance.
- Prior to your trip, have your car serviced, including your tires.
- Always lock your parked car and keep valuables out of sight.
- Keep a safety kit in your car that includes a flashlight with fresh batteries, flares, a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.
- For detailed vehicle safety tips, check out last month’s Public Safety & U!
General Safety
- Carry a minimum amount of cash.
- Store your travel tickets and identification in a secure location or an internal pocket.
- If traveling alone, tell a family member or friend your departure and return dates.
- Try to familiarize yourself with safety services surrounding your given location.
- Don’t forget to enjoy your trip!
Top row: Jacob Williamson (left), Michael Marchioli (right); Bottom row: Ann Marie Masiello.
Recognizing Drexel EMS Graduating Seniors
Drexel’s Department of Public Safety is grateful for the dedicated work of Drexel Emergency Medical Service’s (EMS) graduating seniors. Congratulations to Michael Chang, Steven Chang, Michael Marchioli, Ann Marie Masiello, Dakshith Ragupathi, Sophie Redilla, Simran Shamith, Quyen Tran and Jacob Williamson! Thank you for your service to the Drexel community and mentorship to rising Drexel EMS members. DPS was able to catch up with a few of the seniors and learn about their plans for after graduation. Best wishes to the entire class of 2022, and good luck to all current and incoming EMS members!
Jacob Williamson, Chief
Jacob is graduating with a BS in computer science with a minor in economics and MS in information systems. After graduation, he will be working at Acquia, Inc. as a systems integration developer.
Michael Marchioli, Captain
Michael is graduating with a BS in biology with a minor in neuroscience and will be moving on to medical school at Ohio State University. Michael aspires to practice as a trauma surgeon while also staying involved with EMS.
Ann Marie Masiello, Lieutenant
Ann Marie will be starting medical school at Drexel University College of Medicine this August. She also hopes to continue volunteering in EMS.
Thank you, Sigma Alpha Mu! Sigma Alpha Mu hosted a BBQ lunch for Drexel Public Safety to show their appreciation. DPS thanks them for their continued partnership!
Community Commitments
Learn How to Protect Yourself With DPS’ Educational Offerings
- Your Safety Is Our Goal: Stay aware of your surroundings and always be prepared, not scared, with DPS’ situational preparedness trainings. The next sessions are on June 16 at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. Fill out the Qualtrics form or propose an alternate time by emailing Officer Tim Cirone at tjc94@drexel.edu or Officer Kim McClay at kam556@drexel.edu.
- Self Awareness for Everyone (SAFE): Public Safety’s self-protection program is currently being scheduled by request for either individuals or groups. To schedule a session, please contact Linda Moran at lmm467@drexel.edu. You can also sign up for one of DPS’ summer-term classes (July 7 or August 9, 5-9 p.m.) on Qualtrics.
- Workplace Safety Program: The Public Safety & U workplace safety program highlights the importance of workplace safety through workshops and discussions designed to empower and educate members of the Drexel community on how to manage security issues on campus. This program can be customized to the specific needs of an administrative department or academic college or school to address unique security challenges and identify solutions. If interested in organizing a workshop session, please complete the Request a Presentation Form.
Stay Cool at Cookies With Cops
Swing by an upcoming Cookies With Cops for a chance to interact with Drexel police officers while enjoying some refreshments and conversation to break up your day. The next event will be held July 14 from 3:30–5:30 p.m. on the southeast corner of 33rd and Arch streets, next to Buckley Field entrance.
Important Reminders
We’re Here for You When You Need Us
Please call 215.895.2222 immediately if you experience or witness a crime. Drexel’s Public Safety Communications Center is staffed 24/7 to serve you, whether you choose to remain anonymous when making a report. It is vital that crimes are reported promptly to Drexel Police so that they can be investigated, and so that Public Safety can connect the victim(s) with proper resources.
Drexel Guardian is an app with a one-touch dialing feature to call for help or activate a GPS locator during an emergency, which allows the Drexel Communications Center to immediately locate and assist you. Drexel Guardian will not track you nor share your information unless you initiate an emergency. To download the app, search for “Rave Guardian” in the app store or Google Play store.
Emergency Numbers
215.895.2222 or 911
TTY: 215.571.4141
Walking Escorts
215.895.2222
To learn more about Drexel Public Safety, visit drexel.edu/publicsafety.