The University of Lethbridge is pleased to announce the amalgamation of Risk and Safety Services and Security Services, effective immediately.

"Combining these two units will streamline operations, maximize efficiencies and enhance safety, risk management and security services for the University," says University of Lethbridge Vice-President (Finance and Administration) Nancy Walker. "The merger will facilitate a unified response to emergency incidents, as well as a more efficient and accurate events reporting system, among other synergies."

Risk and Safety Services and Security Services already collaborate on daily operational tasks, as well as numerous institutional projects, and by integrating the two departments, it is anticipated that there will be improvements in time management, organization of resources, and tactical management of safety and risk management programs aligned to the University's strategic plan.

John O'Keeffe, director of Security Services, will now be leading the newly combined department. Anne Baxter continues as the director of Risk and Safety Services.

This integration was one of the recommendations made in a recent externally contracted campus safety and security audit.

The transition to consolidate the departments will not affect current services provided by either unit.

Look for further communications regarding this announcement in coming months as the implications of this amalgamation are explored.