Tennessee State University (TSU) is implementing a new policy to keep students and staff safe. The changes come after a rash of vandalism and a shooting this school year on campus.
It’s already difficult for students to get around campus without identification.
“I use it going to the cafeteria, going in and out of my dorm and driving on campus,” freshman Xavier Johnson explained about the importance of his identification.
A new policy has students and staff lining the halls at the campus police department. Each one is required to get a new photo identification. Starting on March 1st it must be prominently displayed while on campus.
The current policy requires everyone to be able to present identification only when asked.
“It kind of reminds me of high school,” Johnson said. “I guess it’s okay. It’s a public University.”
Both the technology and design has changed on the new badges. A built in chip can now restrict access to certain areas and track who is entering different buildings.
“That gives us another arm to aide our students in identifying potential problems on the campus,” Dr. Curtis Johnson, Associate Vice President for Administration said.