Student Senate hears presentation from OUPD
Ohio University Police Department (OUPD) Officer Even Wilkof joined tonight's Student Senate meeting to share a presentation on Halloween safety. Wilkof explained that while there is not always an option, the OUPD does not want to arrest or detain students, he said, “we want students to be safe. We don't expect students to be perfect, but we want them to make safe choices.” OUPD encourages students to feel safe and comfortable contacting them to report any crimes or things that are out of the ordinary.
Weekends including Homecoming and Halloween bring a lot of guests to campus, Wilkof recommends students have their guests carry sticky notes with the students name, residence hall and room, and phone number. This makes it easier for officers to help a guest get back to their friends if they are unable to do so themselves. If officers happen upon someone who is intoxicated and they cannot help them get back to a sober friend they have to bring them in for a sober hold, which Wilkof said he does not want to do. He mentioned that students are responsible for their guests while they are on campus and should be aware that guests may not have the same care and respect for Ohio U that students have.
Risk reduction is also important when there are large events on and around campus. Some of the techniques for risk reduction Wilkof were, walking with a group of friends while out, carrying your OHIO ID and state-issued ID, telling a friend where you are going and when you will be back, and using your voice to stop potential assault or theft. OUPD wants students to feel empowered to use their voice to help themselves and others when they experience something that may be illegal or dangerous. Wilkof shared he is involved in the OUPD self defense class that teaches students how to empower themselves in situations like these.
On a lighter note, Wilkof told the Senate about the two canines that work with OUPD. He said they are both exclusively trained to be explosive detection canines and the public is free to ask to pet and interact with them. There is a yellow lab named Marcy and a chocolate lab named Bach, both of which, Wilkof assured, are “super friendly.” They will be at the Homecoming Parade on Saturday and at the football game later that day and Wilkof encourages students to meet them.
In other news:
Senate passed a Resolution to purchase a table at the BSCPB Spencer-Blackburn Memorial Pageant B.
Senate passed a resolution to purchase food and refreshments for a Civil Discourse event.
Senate passed a resolution to purchase supplies for the Ohio U Student Senate Fall Retreat.
Senate passed a resolution to cancel its general body meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 19 2025.