Bentley University is reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive campus environment through a comprehensive approach to studentand staff security.
In light of recent national conversations surrounding campus safety, university officials emphasize that Bentley’s safety measures are part of an ongoingstrategy designed to protect the well-being of the entire community.
“We’re constantly evaluating where we are and how we can improve,” said Chief of Police Francis G. Bourgeois. “This isn’t about responding to one incident somewhere else. It’s about making sure we’re always prepared.”
Campus safety at Bentley is built on a multi-layered model that prioritizes prevention, visibility, training and community relationships. Officers conductregular building checks in high-traffic areas such as the Student Center and library and maintain a visible presence across campus to ensure students feel supported, not just monitored.
“It’s not just about equipment,” Bourgeois said. “It’s about relationships. The human element is far more important than any technology.”
Bentley Police responded to more than 5,200 calls for service during the fall semester alone, interactions the department views as opportunities to buildtrust and connection with students. Officers receive training beyond state requirements, including certification in mental health first aid, to better support students experiencing anxiety, distress or other challenges.
The department operates under the Division of Student Affairs, allowing collaboration with the Counseling Center, Health Center, Spiritual Life,Multicultural Center and Student Engagement offices. This structure aligns safety efforts with student support services.
“We want students to feel comfortable coming to us,” Bourgeois said. “Safety works best when it’s shared by the whole community.”
One key resource available to students is the Bentley Safe app, which allows users to text campus police directly, share their location and access emergency features discreetly. Approximately 20 percent of the campus community currently uses the app, and officials hope to expand participation.
The app provides an alternative to calling dispatch, allowing students to communicate silently if they feel unsafe. Features such as real-time messaging and location sharing enable officers to respond quickly and effectively.
“We live in a world where texting feels more natural than calling,” Bourgeois said. “If someone texts that they’re being followed, we can immediately respond without drawing attention to them.”
Bentley Police maintain partnerships with neighboring institutions and local law enforcement agencies, participating in joint trainings to prepare for potential emergencies.
Bentley is one of 15 colleges in Massachusetts accredited by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission, a designation awarded to departments that meet statewide standards.A university survey conducted two years ago found that 98 percent of respondents reported feeling safe on campus.
“I feel campus safety is amazing. I see officers around all the time, and they are always very friendly,” said Andrew Hill, a student at Bentley.
As Bentley continues evaluating its safety initiatives, university officials stress that campus security is built on a collective commitment to the well-being of the community.
