TO: Boston University Faculty, Staff, and Students
FROM: Kelly Nee, Vice President, Safety, Security & Preparedness
DATE: February 12, 2026
SUBJECT: Supporting a Safe and Prepared BU Community
Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
As we move through a new semester, I want to focus on something fundamental to our community: safety. A safe campus environment is built through attention, preparation, and a shared commitment to looking out for one another. We have many safety measures and resources in place, supported by dedicated teams across Safety, Security & Preparedness. Our staff work every day to protect our campuses and engage with the community through education, outreach, and preparedness programs. But our greatest strength is each other.
Below are a few key resources and reminders to help you remain informed and prepared.
- Stay Aware and Report Concerns. Pay attention to your surroundings and speak up when something does not seem right. If you observe behavior that seems threatening,unsafe, or out of place for the environment, please call the BU Police Department at 617-353-2121. For non-urgent concerns, you may also use BUPD’s anonymous tip form.
- Build Your Skills with SAFE Training. Safety Awareness for Everyone (SAFE) is an on-demand training that provides practical tools and guidance to help you recognize risks and respond with confidence in emergency situations. Whether you are new to BU or have been here for years, I encourage you to complete this valuable training. Additional safety resources and support information can be found on our Campus Resources page.
- Stay Informed with BU Alert. In an emergency, BU Alert is the University’s official source for real-time information and guidance. Please make sure your contact information is current (via the MyBU Student Portal or BUworks Central Portal) so you can receive alerts without delay.
- Care for Yourself and Others. Stress, fatigue, and burnout can make it harder to stay focused and aware; checking in on your own well-being and supporting those around you helps sustain our community. Resources can be found at our Student Wellbeing site and through the Faculty & Staff Assistance Office.
At BU, we are committed to building an environment where everyone feels secure, respected, and free to pursue their work, studies, and recreation without fear or worry. That commitment includes the work we do every day together with campus and local organizations.
Thank you for partnering with us in this important effort.
Sincerely,
Kelly Nee
Vice President, Safety, Security & Preparedness