North Central State secures $75K grant
COLUMBUS —North Central State College is among 28 colleges and universities in Ohio will receive a total of $7.5 million in funding for security projects that enhance the safety of students and staff, the state announced.
“Ohio remains committed to ensuring our colleges and universities have the resources they need to make their campuses as safe as possible,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement Tuesday. “These grants will allow us to continue this important work so students can focus on thriving in their studies, chasing their career goals, and reaching their full potential.”
The grant awards are part of the FY2025-26 Campus Safety Grant Program, which was funded with support from the Ohio legislature in House Bill 2 of the 135th General Assembly.
The Ohio School Safety Center, which is a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, reviewed the campus safety grant applications in consultation with the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
Details were announced via news release.
Funds will be used to cover expenses associated with physical security enhancements, such as security cameras, fencing, lighting, door locks, portable surveillance trailers, radios, drones, and more.
“I commend Governor DeWine and the General Assembly for continuing to prioritize campus safety, which is a critical part of a successful college experience for all students,” said Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey. “These grants provide continued support to our campuses in their efforts to provide a safe learning environment.”
“It is important to create an environment on our campuses where students feel secure and can focus on learning,” said Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. “Without question, these grants will improve safety and security across the state.”
To be eligible for grant funding, colleges and universities conducted a security and vulnerability assessment to identify areas in need of safety enhancements.