As the first step in a comprehensive review of all university policies and procedures to ensure they are aligned with our diversity, inclusion and equity goals, an Advisory Committee representing a broad cross-section of the university community has been named to help us initiate and guide a review of the Lehigh University Police Department (LUPD).
The Advisory Committee will work with us and the Lehigh community to select an independent organization or consultant to conduct the review, with the goal of strengthening relationships between LUPD and the racial/ethnic minority communities of Lehigh and our surrounding community. The review will include, but not be limited to, policies and procedures affecting the recruitment and retention of racial/ethnic minority police officers, training to effectively serve a diverse community, communications with the community and the promotion of effective policing while building community and public trust.
We want to thank those who have agreed to serve on the Advisory Committee and to work with us on this important initiative. The committee will be chaired by Chad Williams, Director of The Office of Multicultural Affairs. Other members include Holona Ochs, Associate Professor of Political Science; Jennifer Mack, Scheduling Manager, Zoellner Arts Center; Michael (Mike) Kimmel, Graduate Student, College of Education; William (Will) Constant ’21, Undergraduate Student, Vice President, Black Student Union; and Divine Buckrham ’21, Undergraduate Student, Athlete Constituency, Student Senate.
There will be opportunities for input by the Lehigh community throughout the review process. A final report conveying the findings and recommendations of the entity conducting the review, along with comments and recommendations of the Advisory Committee, will be conveyed to the university’s senior leadership and will be made available to the university community.
Pat Johnson
Vice President for Finance & Administration
Nathan Urban
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Donald Outing
Vice President for Equity and Community, University Diversity and Inclusion
