The Campus Security Task Force set up by Governor Matt Blunt on the heels of the Virginia Tech massacre has held its first meeting – a get acquainted session involving the 27 members who are made up of emergency personnel, law enforcement, and representatives of higher education, among others.
Higher Education Commissioner Robert Stein, the Co-Chair of the Task Force, says the aim is to build stronger campus communities equipped to effectively coordinate rapid and comprehensive responses to any future threats.
At least five more meetings will be held in the coming months, in such places as Jefferson City, St. Louis, and Kansas City. The group will provide a comprehensive report focused on initiatives to improve safety standards and heighten security within buildings and facilities on campuses.
Public Safety Director Mark James, the other Task Force Co-Chair, says plans are for the panel to work aggressively and to send the report to the Governor by August 1st.