FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (Feb. 17, 2020) – A new study conducted by SafeHome.org has identified Broward College as having the safest campuses in the State of Florida. In its 2020 report on the safety of some of the largest public and private colleges and universities across the United States, SafeHome.org recognized Broward College as having the lowest violent-crime rate per 1,000 students in Florida and one of the lowest nationwide from among 500 institutions.

According to data, published in 2017 from the United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Education, Americans between the ages of 18 and 24 have the highest violent and serious violent victimization rates. This age range represents many students enrolled in higher education institutions, where crime is also a concern.

While few higher education campuses are free of any violence, Broward College has a state-of-the-art Security Operations Center which stays open 24 hours, seven days a week, to ensure the College is prepared for any emergency. The College focuses on having routine patrols of campus buildings by Campus Safety Officers, properly maintaining facilities and security systems, as well as putting in place emergency call boxes across its campuses.

"Our team of experts works closely with local law enforcement to continuously improve policies and procedures," said Grant Gundle, associate vice president of Safety, Security, and Emergency Preparedness. "But safety is not simply about what we do, it is a college-wide effort, and all stakeholders must get involved. We share what we learn with our students and employees through presentations, seminars, and other events that teach them how to prepare and respond when necessary."