CSU police honored for reflecting university’s values

The Columbus State University Police Department received the institution’s inaugural “Living Our Values Award” for practicing a philosophy of community policing, collaboration, crime prevention and problem resolution, according to a news release issued by the university.

CSU President Chris Markwood presented the award Monday at the university’s “Welcome Back Kickoff,” surprising university police officers and other employees who received a standing ovation from their colleagues.

The award was established to recognize the group on campus that best embodies the university’s values on a daily basis, according to the release, and the police department met that criteria.

“CSU’s values really got our attention when we started looking at the presidency here,” said Markwood, who became president in 2015. “...We established this award as a special recognition for a group that frequently goes beyond what is expected but expects nothing in return – for those unsung heroes who do what they do because they care, not because it’s their job or for any accolades or attention that may come their way.”

The CSU police department is a fully authorized state police agency with 38 employees and provides services to both CSU’s RiverPark and main campuses, according to the release.

Markwood emphasized the department’s collaboration with state and local agencies and participation in local events such as National Night Out.

“We should be proud that it is our University Police that are frequently called upon in Atlanta for service and expertise,” he said. “They are very visible on campus, stressing accessibility, excellence and servant leadership; participating in orientations, resident assistance training and many other student group sessions to stress crime prevention and personal safety.”

CSU Police Chief Rus Drew said the department was humbled by the award.

“We take a great deal of pride in our job and in the relationships we have cultivated with CSU’s students and employees,” he said. “It is very gratifying to have that work recognized, and even more rewarding to hear we reflect CSU’s values.”

This story was originally published August 9, 2016 at 8:34 PM with the headline "CSU police honored for reflecting university’s values."