University Establishes Behavioral Intervention Team

VALDOSTA--Valdosta State University has expanded its focus on campus safety with the formation of the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT).  

According to Tom Hardy, director of Housing and Residence Life and BIT co-chairman, the BIT is an expansion of what was previously referred to as the Threat Assessment Team, which was established in 2008. 

With additional training through Crisis Management International and National Center for Higher Education Risk Management, BIT members are ready to broaden their scope of responsibility to the campus community. 

“The BIT team is here to help, and making a report is quick and can be anonymous,” said Hardy. “We are not out to get anyone in trouble. We are mainly looking for pieces to put together as a group to a larger puzzle and try to prevent escalation of behaviors that could lead to violence.” 

The BIT has representatives from Academic Affairs, Counseling Center, Housing and Residence Life, Human Resources and Employee Development, University Police, and Student Affairs. 

According to the BIT website, “The Behavioral Intervention Team helps individuals and situations that could be potential threats to the safety/security of the VSU campus community. The team evaluates these individuals and situations using appropriate intervention guidelines to minimize the likelihood of violent occurrences.” 

For more information:

http://www.valdosta.edu/administration/finance-admin/police/b.i.t.-behavioral-intervention-team.php

Valdosta State University’s 2013-2019 Strategic Plan represents a renewal of energy and commitment to the foundational principles for comprehensive institutions.

Implementation of the plan’s five goals, along with their accompanying objectives and strategies, supports VSU’s institutional mission and the University System of Georgia’s mission for comprehensive universities.

The story above demonstrates VSU's commitment to meeting the following goals:

Goal 1: Recruit, retain, and graduate a quality, diverse student population and prepare students for roles as leaders in a global society.

Goal 3: Promote student, employee, alumni, retiree, and community engagement in our mission.

Goal 5: Develop and enhance Valdosta State’s human and physical resources.

Visit http://www.valdosta.edu/administration/planning/strategic-plan.php to learn more.