“This proactive initiative is a cross-disciplinary team that identifies, assesses and addresses concerning behaviors before they escalate into serious incidents,” said Chief Jay Freeman of the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department.
The BIT is a part of the Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management Strategy, which creates a safer and more supportive learning environment for students and employees.
“The BIT is crucial in identifying and addressing concerns before they escalate, ensuring that students receive the support they need while maintaining a safe learning environment,” Freeman said.
The BIT has four main goals:
“This initiative aligns with national best practices in preventing targeted violence and ensures that Gadsden State remains a leader in campus safety and student success,” he said.
Freeman is joined on the BIT by Cody Beck, director of Enrollment Services; Ricky Tillis, director of the Valley Street Campus; Lynn Patterson, director of Student Activities; Gerri Langley, Office Administration instructor; Lt. Colton Harden, Gadsden State Police; Melissa Davis, orientation instructor; Randi Wright, director of Gadsden State Cherokee; and Dr. Dana Davis, director of the Advising and Retention Center.
“By working together as a community, we can develop a culture of care and early intervention that benefits everyone,” Freeman said.
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