SAFE Campuses, LLC Celebrates the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act: A Historic Name Change Reflecting Broader Campus Safety Goals

Thomson, GA – January 30, 2025 – SAFE Campuses, LLC is proud to announce and reflect on the successful renaming of the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act to the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, a change that signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of campus safety legislation.

Historical Context and Evolution:

The Clery Act was first enacted in 1990 following the tragic murder of Jeanne Clery at Lehigh University. Originally named the “Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990,” its purpose was to ensure colleges and universities disclose crime statistics and security policies to students and the public. Over the decades, this law has grown from focusing primarily on crime statistics to encompassing a wide range of safety issues on campus, including but not limited to, emergency notifications, sexual violence prevention, and now, hazing.

The Push for Change:

In 2023, S. Daniel Carter, President of SAFE Campuses, LLC, initiated discussions on modernizing the Clery Act’s name to better reflect its contemporary significance. Carter’s vision was clear: “Updating the name to the ‘Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act’ places the focus, as it should be, on our shared goal of safer campuses rather than outdated bureaucratic references. This change is not just symbolic; it’s a step towards ensuring that our campuses are safer places for learning and growth.”

Building Consensus:

Carter’s proposal was met with support from various stakeholders in campus safety, including the Clery Center, which endorsed the change on behalf of the Clery family. In a letter dated August 27, 2024, from Clery Center’s Executive Director Jessica A. Mertz, she stated, “We believe this revised name more accurately reflects the broad scope and intent of the legislation, and we urge Congress to support this change.”

Legislative Journey:

The renaming was officially integrated into the “Stop Campus Hazing Act” (H.R. 5646), which was enacted on December 23, 2024 as Public Law No. 118-173. Reflecting on this milestone, Carter shared, “This renaming honors Jeanne Clery’s legacy while aligning the law with the realities of modern campus life. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when we come together for the safety and well-being of our students.”

Impact of the Name Change:

Clarification: The new name clarifies that the legislation’s primary aim is campus safety, not just the technical reporting aspects.
Encouragement: It encourages institutions to embrace a broader, more proactive approach to safety.
Legacy: It continues to honor Jeanne Clery’s legacy while aligning the law with current campus safety challenges.

Acknowledgment:

SAFE Campuses, LLC extends heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this significant legislative amendment, including members of Congress, educational institutions, advocacy groups, and the families affected by campus safety issues. Carter concluded, “I’m humbled by the support this initiative received and grateful for the collaborative effort from all stakeholders. This is a step forward in making our educational environments safer for all.”

About SAFE Campuses, LLC:

SAFE Campuses, LLC, founded in 2017, is dedicated to enhancing safety in higher education through expert consultation, policy development, and educational initiatives. With a team of professionals in campus public safety, student affairs, and legal compliance, SAFE Campuses works to ensure campuses across the United States are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of their communities.

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SAFE Campuses, LLC P.O. Box 2019, Thomson, GA 30824 http://safecampuses.biz

Note: This press release does not constitute legal advice. Institutions should consult with their legal counsel for compliance with the new and existing laws.

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