About Us
The Division of Public Safety works to further the university's academic and research missions by providing a safe campus where our students, faculty and staff can excel academically and professionally.
We are comprised of six operational units, Emergency Management, Environmental Health and Safety, Virginia Tech Police Department, Virginia Tech Rescue Squad, Hokie Passport and Office of Youth Protection. Our units play critical roles in supporting the well-being of the university community. They are a vital part of the university's commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for all.
OUR UNITS
The Emergency Management team works to instill a culture of preparedness throughout the university by building, improving and sustaining university resilience, departmental readiness, and individual preparedness. The department takes an all-hazards approach to continuously further the capability of the Virginia Tech community to plan for, mitigate against, respond to, and recover from an incident or emergency. This team works closely with other departments and agencies to develop emergency plans and protocols, conduct training, exercises, and coordinate emergency response efforts. They also provide information and guidance to the community on how to prepare for and respond to emergencies, such as severe weather events, active assailant situations, and natural disasters.
The Environmental Health and Safety team promotes a positive, integrated living and working health and safety culture for the university community. They are responsible for working with university facilities and operations to comply with local, state, and federal environmental, health and safety regulations. This includes everything from maintaining safe working conditions in labs and facilities to managing hazardous materials and waste.
The Virginia Tech Police Department is a nationally accredited, full-service police department who’s mission is to enhance the safety and quality of life for students, faculty, staff and visitors through effective law enforcement and proactive crime prevention in partnership with the university community.
Finally, the Virginia Tech Rescue Squad is a student-run organization that provides emergency medical services to the community. They are trained and equipped to respond to a wide range of medical emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. They work closely with other public safety units to ensure a coordinated response and provide critical support during emergency situations.
Hokie Passport Services
Hokie Passport Services provides secure and reliable credential services that support the daily operations and safety of the Virginia Tech community. The team produces official university credentials for students, faculty, staff and affiliates and manages services including campus debit accounts, dining plan accounts and electronic door access.
Hokie Passport Services also supports credential and access systems across Virginia Tech locations, working to provide convenient, efficient and secure access to university facilities, services and resources.
Office of Youth Protection
The Office of Youth Protection supports the safety and well-being of minors participating in Virginia Tech programs and activities. The office provides oversight and guidance for university programs involving non-enrolled minors, including camps, clinics, workshops, conferences, research mentorships and other educational activities.
The office oversees program registration, training and background check requirements and provides resources to help university departments and outside organizations comply with Virginia Tech Policy 4815 and established youth protection standards.