On Monday, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the allocation of $7.5 million in grants to bolster security measures at 28 colleges and universities across the state. The funding, part of the Campus Safety Grant Program, will support physical safety enhancements such as security cameras, improved lighting, fencing, door locks, and surveillance equipment.
In the official release, Gov. DeWine said, “Ohio remains committed to ensuring our colleges and universities have the resources they need to make their campuses as safe as possible. These grants will allow us to continue this important work so students can focus on thriving in their studies, chasing their career goals, and reaching their full potential.”
The grant program operates under the Ohio School Safety Center, established in 2019, and is supported by the Ohio legislature through House Bill 2 of the 135th General Assembly. Eligible institutions were required to conduct comprehensive security and vulnerability assessments to identify areas in need of improvement before applying for the funding.
Director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety Andy Wilson said in a statement, “It is important to create an environment on our campuses where students feel secure and can focus on learning. Without question, these grants will improve safety and security across the state.”
Since its inception in 2021, the Campus Safety Grant Program has awarded a total of $17.5 million to Ohio’s higher education institutions. Applications for this funding cycle were reviewed by the Ohio School Safety Center in consultation with the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
Find the full list of beneficiaries here.
