Enacted in 1990, the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act (Title II of Public Law 101-542) requires postsecondary institutions receiving Title IV financial aid to disclose campus crime statistics and security information.
At Columbia-Greene Community College, the safety and well-being of all campus members are a shared responsibility. The following information is provided to support our commitment to a safe environment.
Campus Crime Statistics and Security Information:
In accordance with federal law, Columbia-Greene Community College publishes annual campus crime statistics. These are available to all current and prospective students and employees. The report includes data on criminal offenses such as:
- Homicide
- Sexual Assault
- Robbery
- Aggravated Assault
- Burglary
- Motor Vehicle Theft
- Arson
Additionally, the report provides information on arrests and disciplinary actions for liquor law violations, drug law violations, and illegal weapons possession.
Accessing the Annual Security Report:
Printed copies of the Annual Security Report are available upon request at the Office of Security and Safety, located in Room 200. For further inquiries or to request a copy, please contact the Office at (518) 697-6170.
Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications:
To protect the campus community, Columbia-Greene Community College has procedures in place to issue timely warnings and emergency notifications in the event of significant threats to health or safety.
In such situations, the College will:
- Issue an emergency notification promptly.
- Use multiple communication channels, including campus-wide emails, text messages, and the College website.
- Provide follow-up information as needed.
Reporting Crimes and Other Emergencies:
All campus community members should promptly report criminal activities, suspicious behavior, or emergencies to the Office of Security and Safety. Reports can be made in person (Room 200) or by calling (518) 697-6170. For immediate assistance, dial 911.
Campus Security Authorities (CSAs):
Designated individuals, such as members of the Office of Security and Safety, those with significant responsibility for student activities, and advisors to student organizations, are required to report any crimes they become aware of to the Office of Security and Safety.
Security and Access to Campus Facilities:
The College employs security measures to protect its facilities, including:
- Regular monitoring of buildings and grounds
- Controlled access to specific areas
- Security patrols
Students and employees should remain vigilant and report security concerns to the Office of Security and Safety.
Crime Prevention and Safety Awareness Programs:
Columbia-Greene Community College offers programs to promote safety and prevent crime, including:
- Personal safety workshops
- Self-defense classes
- Substance abuse prevention sessions
Participation is encouraged to enhance personal safety and contribute to a secure campus environment.
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response:
The College is dedicated to preventing sexual assault and supporting survivors. Resources include counseling and assistance with reporting incidents. For more details, refer to the Sexual Assault Policy in the Student Handbook.
Reporting Criminal Incidents and Other Emergencies
To report a crime or serious incident, contact Security at extension 6170 or visit Room 200. Appropriate personnel will respond, and criminal offenses will be reported to law enforcement for investigation and possible prosecution.
The campus community will be notified of safety threats through various channels, including email, bulletin boards, student message boards, Facebook, the C-GCC website, public address system, and classroom announcements, as needed.
Facility Security and Access
Columbia-Greene Community College prioritizes the safety of its campus community. Most campus facilities are accessible during operational hours. After hours, buildings are secured, and access is limited to authorized individuals with proper identification.
Enforcement Authority
While Security Officers do not have law enforcement or arrest powers, they are responsible for enforcing campus policies and procedures. They may request identification to verify legitimate presence on campus. In cases of criminal activity, Security Officers will refer incidents to local law enforcement for investigation and possible prosecution, and reports will be sent to the President’s Staff for follow-up.
Deputy Sheriff on Campus
Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Columbia County Sheriff's Department, a Deputy Sheriff is assigned to the campus each semester, ensuring law enforcement jurisdiction over College-owned, leased, or controlled properties in Columbia County. The MOU can be reviewed in the Dean of Students Office during normal business hours.
Crime Awareness and Prevention Programs
Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to the safety and well-being of its community. The College offers comprehensive programs to educate about crime prevention and safety:
- Orientation and Information Dissemination: Crime prevention materials, including Sexual Assault Prevention information, are distributed during Student Orientation and are available in the Student Handbook. Prevention programs are held throughout the year.
- Security Measures: Parking areas are patrolled by security personnel at night. Security escorts to parking areas are available upon request
- Facility Maintenance: The Maintenance Department conducts regular safety inspections and makes repairs as necessary. Safety or security concerns can be reported to the Security Office or the Director of Security & Facilities.
The cooperation of the campus community is vital to maintaining a safe environment. Everyone is encouraged to take responsibility for personal safety, secure belongings, and report any suspicious activity to security.
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act
Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to transparency and safety in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Act. The College’s Annual Security Report, which includes campus crime statistics submitted to the U.S. Department of Education, is available upon request. Contact the Office of the Dean of Students at (518) 697-6320 to obtain a copy, or access it online through the U.S. Department of Education’s Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Tool at ope.ed.gov/security.
Reporting a Bias/Hate Crime
Columbia-Greene Community College is dedicated to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment. If you experience or witness a bias or hate crime, the following resources are available for support:
- Dean of Students: Guidance through the reporting process
- Health Services: Medical support and counseling
- Security Office: Immediate safety and official reports
- Accessibility Services: Support for individuals with disabilities
- Advising, Career, and Transfer Services: Academic and personal support
To report an incident, contact any of the offices listed above or submit an online Incident Report form. The College encourages prompt reporting of all bias or hate incidents to ensure a timely and effective response.
Emergency Management Plan
Columbia-Greene Community College has developed a comprehensive Emergency Management Plan to guide the campus community during emergencies. While not all scenarios can be predicted, the plan outlines procedures and the organizational structure to ensure safety before, during, and after an emergency.
The College’s Day Care Center has a separate Emergency Management Plan tailored to its specific needs.
By familiarizing yourself with these guidelines, you contribute to a safer campus environment.
Safety and Security Committee
In compliance with Section 6450 of the New York State Education Law, Columbia-Greene Community College has established a campus security advisory committee. This committee, composed of students, faculty, and staff, reports directly to the College President and focuses on campus safety and security issues.