Enhanced Facility Access Safety Requirements

Dear Emory Community,

Welcome back. I hope you had a restorative winter recess. As we begin the new semester, I want to reaffirm the shared partnership between the Emory Police Department (EPD) and the Emory community in fostering a safe and supportive campus. Recent tragedies at universities across the country, including the August 8 shooting that targeted the CDC adjacent to Emory's Atlanta campus, underscore the importance of our continuous focus on the safety and well-being of our Emory community.

To further strengthen our commitment to ensuring a secure environment, we are implementing new access control measures — effective January 21 on the Atlanta and Oxford campuses. The use of EmoryCards will be required for entry to all exterior doors of academic and office buildings on our campuses. The Atlanta campus bookstore, Cox Hall Market, and the Carlos Museum will not require card access during normal business hours.

For many, using the EmoryCard to access buildings is a common practice and safety measure. Members of our community already scan their EmoryCard to enter libraries, research labs, residence halls, Woodruff PE Center and other spaces. If you do not have an EmoryCard, follow these steps to request a card and keep the card handy when you are on campus.

This expansion of card access strengthens how we collectively support and protect the Emory community. EPD is proud to serve alongside students, faculty, staff, patients, and families, and collaborate with Emory leadership to foster safe spaces. In addition, EPD will continue to focus on visibility, engagement, training, and preparedness:

• Stronger community presence: You’ll see more EPD officers on foot across the Emory and Oxford campuses, especially in high-traffic areas. We encourage you to say hello and get to know those who serve you — be on the lookout for Officer Frazier and K9 Leo, our four-legged team member.
• Student partnership: Through collaboration with the Emory Student Government Association, Graduate Student Government Association and Oxford Student Government Association, EPD’s Student Advisory Council will continue to meet regularly this semester as these interactions provide valuable student insight into Emory’s emergency response, crisis support, and communication practices.
• Building an #EmoryReady community: In partnership with the Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), EPD will continue offering training, education, and programs to strengthen campus preparedness.

Safety at Emory is strongest when we work together. We ask for your partnership by incorporating proactive safety measures into your daily routine. Carry your EmoryCard or campus ID as it is now your key to accessing authorized buildings. Download the Emory Safe app and review the Just-in-Time Guide for Campus Emergencies . Remember that EPD is here for you 24/7 at 404-727-6111. 

Have a successful and productive semester. I look forward to seeing you around campus!

Chief Burt Buchtinec
Emory Police Department