Acting Governor Codey announces membership of campus security task force

TRENTON, May 1, 2007.- Acting Governor Richard J. Codey today announced the membership of the Campus Security Task Force, which was formed in response to the recent shootings at Virginia Tech. The task force will be co-chaired by Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness Director Dick Canas and Commission on Higher Education Executive Director Jane Oates.

"I want to thank Governor Corzine's staff for their hard work in forming this task force," Acting Governor Codey said. "I'm sure that when they submit their report to Governor Corzine, New Jersey will have established itself as a national leader in campus safety and security."

The task force will work with experts in the field to determine what specific concerns campus security plans should address and will also establish security standards that colleges and universities will be expected to meet and exceed. Additionally, the task force will help make colleges and universities aware of the full range of technology available to help them secure their campuses.

Three students from New Jersey died in the shooting at Virginia Tech: Michael Pohl Jr, of Raritan Township; Caitlin Hammaren, of Kinnelon; and Matthew La Porte of Dumont. Sean McQuade, a Virginia Tech student from Harrison Township was critically wounded.

The other members of the task force are:

Les Wiser, recently retired director of the FBI's Newark field office;

Ed Yaw, President, County College of Morris and Chair of the President's Council;

Student representatives Carlos Machado, who attends UMDNJ, and Jennifer Dalbow, who attends Cumberland County College;

Steve Healey, president of International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators;

Michael Lattimore, Head of Security for Rutgers University - Newark

Glenn Miller, Security Chief at Stockton University;

James Kohl, Rutgers Police;

Brendon McCluskey, UMDNJ police;

Vicki Weaver, Rider Police;

Hector Gonzalez, Burlington County College Police;

Vincent Markowski, Ramapo College Police;

Bob Davidson, Executive Director of the Essex County Mental Health Association;

Sheriff Armando Fontoura, Essex County Sheriff;

Attorney General's representative.