About
Vanderbilt University Public Safety operates under the Division of Administration. As one of Tennessee's largest law enforcement agencies, VUPS provides comprehensive law enforcement and security services across Vanderbilt University's campuses, including the Medical Center and other university-owned facilities throughout Davidson County.
With over 250 staff members, VUPS is organized into three divisions: Operations, Auxiliary Services, and Administration. All sworn officers have completed training at a state-certified police academy and are commissioned through the Metro Nashville Davidson County Police Department. Additionally, non-sworn Community Service Officers support security-related functions.
Accreditation
Vanderbilt University Public Safety holds quadruple accreditation from state, national, and international bodies: CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies), IACLEA (International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators), and TLEA (Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation).
Accreditation signifies that VUPD meets rigorous standards in policy, procedures, and accountability, exceeding 500 standards annually across all four accreditations. It underscores VUPD's commitment to superior public safety services with professionalism and excellence.
Mission
Vanderbilt University Public Safety is dedicated to safeguarding Vanderbilt and its diverse community through:
- Deliver superior law enforcement services with integrity and pride.
- Respect and safeguard the dignity and rights of all individuals.
- Demonstrate respect toward the people we serve and one another to maintain an environment of trust.
- Develop partnerships with all segments of our community through effective communication and collaboration.
- Carefully select and maintain a well-trained, educated and professional staff.
- Accept individual responsibility and accountability for our actions.
Strategic & Multi-Year Plans
The Vanderbilt University Public Safety Strategic Plan serves as a dynamic guide to align organizational priorities with the evolving needs of Vanderbilt University and Medical Center. This plan supports adapting to leadership changes, budget constraints, and technological advancements. It outlines staffing strategies, equipment priorities, training goals, and departmental objectives.
Annual goals and objectives are established to meet service demands, informed by community feedback and operational benchmarks. These goals are flexible to accommodate shifting priorities, funding changes, and evolving service expectations.