Oct. 15, 2025
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photos by Sam Cox, Nicholas Benner and Mizzou Campus Facilities
At the University of Missouri, your safety is paramount. That’s why Mizzou continues to invest in innovative technologies and proven practices to keep our community safe, connected and confident day and night.
During the past five years, the university has made significant upgrades to campus lighting, expanded security camera coverage and strengthened emergency communications. Together, these efforts ensure that students can focus on what matters most: their goals, growth and educational experience at Mizzou.
“The safety of students, faculty and staff is among our highest priorities,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “Our extensive investments in security and lighting help protect our campus, prevent crime and hold perpetrators accountable. By working with the MU Police Department and our community partners, we will continue to improve safety and keep Mizzou a welcoming place where all can achieve excellence.”
Here are five ways Mizzou is being proactive when it comes to campus safety.
1. More security cameras.
New security cameras have been installed at key locations across campus. Operating 24/7, these cameras help the MU Police Department (MUPD) monitor campus activity and respond quickly. Many cameras feature license plate reader technology to support investigations and strengthen enforcement efforts.
2. New bright lighting
From Lowry Mall to athletic complexes and buildings across campus, new lighting has been installed along well-traveled paths and parking lots, helping students, faculty, staff and visitors feel comfortable walking in the early morning or after dark. Brighter pathways also help deter would-be perpetrators.
The Blue Light Emergency Phones now stand out more clearly, too, as they’ve been rewrapped in Mizzou gold for greater visibility.
3. Mizzou Safe App
We’ve made more investments in enhanced radio repeaters to improve emergency communication coverage, ensuring that help is always a call or tap away. The Mizzou Safe App allows users to report tips, make emergency calls or request assistance directly from their phones. The MU Alert system is a trusted source of information that delivers real-time instructions during emergencies. In addition to emails and text notifications, the MU Alert website provides the most up-to-date information about campus conditions. Discussions to further enhance mass notification systems are ongoing.
4. Providing more MUPD patrols
MUPD officers patrol Mizzou 24/7, serving as a visible and reassuring presence across campus. They also partner with the Columbia Police Department, Boone County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol to provide additional patrols in downtown Columbia, ensuring faster response and stronger collaboration across jurisdictions. MUPD offers several ways to file reports, including non-emergency reports, and submit anonymous tips online. The department is located at 901 Virginia Avenue and can also be reached by phone at 573-882-7201. Remember, in an emergency, always call 911.
5. Safe rides home and empowering Tigers
Students can take advantage of STRIPES, which offers free, safe rides from downtown Columbia to campus residences between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. In addition to expanded technology and consistent foot patrols, MUPD offers self-defense classes and active threat response training — which includes components of the federal Run, Hide, Fight® Program — to help students feel confident and prepared in emergency situations.
