In parts one and two of this series, we discussed the key reasons and requirements for Clery Act reporting. Now let’s examine some strategies for achieving and sustaining annual compliance.
Promote Awareness through Training and Outreach
Providing students with education and awareness programs to aid in the prevention of violence is a cornerstone of the Clery Act. Fostering a climate of self-awareness empowers students to stay alert and take an active interest in their own safety. Prevention programs also encourage students who have experienced violence to find their voice and step forward without fear of recourse. This component is crucial as the perceived number of underreported crimes inches higher every year.
At a minimum, institutions must offer programs and resources covering domestic and dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault prevention.
Publish Annual Security Reports
Annual security reports are due October 1st without exception. Reports must be compiled into one document and disseminated to staff and students by the deadline. In addition to crime statistics, the document must include the institution's current policies and procedures regarding reporting, notifications, alerts, prevention programs, response and evacuation processes, and data collection practices. All reports must contain complete, accurate, and in-depth information stated in clearly understandable and concise language.
Failing to address the minimum requirements or omitting details, such as employee titles, can result in non-compliance designations. Compliance officers can find a complete list of annual Clery reporting requirements on the Information for Financial Aid Professionals (IFAP) website.
Pull It All Together
Although the Clery Act may seem like a never-ending task, personalizing the act to align with institutional needs can provide opportunities for growth and insight. This process can also aid institutions in boosting campus safety and reputational scores while, at the same, delivering a sound, secure environment for the entire campus community. Above all, compliance officers must maintain a careful balance between advocacy and adherence. Staying true to both professional duties and moral obligations is paramount to enhancing campus safety and safeguarding the future of higher education.
If you would like to learn more about how your institution can streamline and systematize its Clery reporting processes, Omnigo can help. We offer a complete suite of security management, incident reporting, and data analysis software designed to help colleges and universities of all sizes maintain Clery compliance. To learn more, request a demo.
