Today@Sam Article
A Commitment to Excellence: SHSU Police Department’s Role in Campus Safety
March 18, 2025
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd
By Amber Wood
Sam Houston State University remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a secure, supportive environment where students can thrive. At the heart of this mission is the University Police Department (UPD), an organization deeply embedded in the campus community and dedicated to providing exemplary service. SHSU's UPD was recently reaccredited by the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA), demonstrating the department's efforts to uphold the highest standards in law enforcement.
With more than 2,700 law enforcement agencies across Texas, only 219 have achieved TPCA accreditation, placing SHSU in an elite category of departments committed to best practices. This distinction is built upon 170 carefully crafted procedures that ensure consistency, professionalism and continuous officer training. The process is rigorous, requiring an in-depth review of department policies, operations and training procedures. But for UPD personnel, it is a necessary step for delivering the highest level of service to students, faculty and staff.
More than just a policing unit, UPD is a vital part of the university’s culture, working alongside students and campus organizations to promote safety and community engagement. Officers regularly participate in outreach initiatives, provide educational programs and engage with students beyond traditional law enforcement roles. Their presence on campus extends beyond patrol duties—they are mentors, educators and trusted members of the Bearkat family.
Leading this dedicated team is Chief Kevin Morris, whose own journey within the department began as a student worker at SHSU. His career path exemplifies the unique nature of campus law enforcement, where officers are not only responsible for maintaining safety but also for fostering an environment of support and student success.
"We are part of the university just like anyone else," Morris said. "Our officers aren’t just working here; they are invested in the success and safety of this campus. Many of them are alumni or have ties to SHSU, which strengthens their commitment to the students, faculty and staff."
Accreditation is more than just a benchmark—it is a framework that ensures every aspect of the department operates at the highest level. From evidence management and training to emergency response planning, accreditation provides a structured foundation that enhances efficiency and accountability. Officers undergo continuous training in de-escalation, crisis intervention and emergency medical response, ensuring they are equipped to handle a wide range of situations. This commitment to preparedness recently proved invaluable when an officer working an on-campus event was able to respond immediately to a medical emergency, potentially saving a life.
"If we hadn’t done that training, the officer might not have known exactly what to do," Morris said. "But because we did, a life was saved."
Beyond training, UPD remains an active participant in the student experience. Events like the annual Kat Safety Bash bring together local law enforcement agencies, first responders and university organizations to promote awareness and preparedness in a dynamic, engaging setting. From interactive demonstrations to educational programming, these initiatives serve as a reminder that safety is shared and students play a critical role in maintaining a secure campus environment.
Lt. Scott Zella recently conducted a field sobriety exercise, complete with goggles that mimic the effects of alcohol.
"For two hours straight, we had a nonstop flow of students coming and interacting with us," Zella said. "[The event] wasn’t about enforcing laws—it was about having conversations, answering their questions and building trust."
Looking ahead, SHSU’s UPD continues to evolve, embracing new technology and strategies to enhance campus security. But at its core, the department remains focused on what matters most: serving and protecting the Bearkat community. By maintaining accreditation, fostering strong relationships and prioritizing student engagement, UPD stands as a model for excellence in university law enforcement.
"When you do things right every day, the reaccreditation process is just a formality," Zella said. "It’s not something you prepare for every four years—it’s something you live every day."
At Sam Houston State University, "The measure of a Life is its Service," and UPD exemplifies this principle every day by ensuring that students, faculty and staff have the support and security they need to succeed.
- END -
This page maintained by SHSU's Communications Office:
Director of Content Communications: Emily Binetti
Asst. Director Content & Social Media: Emilee White
Communications Manager: Mikah Boyd
Telephone: 936.294.1837
Communications Specialist: Campbell Atkins
Telephone: 936.294.2638
Please send comments, corrections, news tips to Today@Sam.edu