Award for Innovations in Community Oriented Policing Recipients

The IACLEA Award for Innovations in Community Oriented Policing is presented to an IACLEA institutional member for outstanding service and initiative supporting the effective promotion of the Community Oriented Policing philosophy.

2020 IACLEA Award Recipient for Innovations in Community Oriented Policing
Vice President Paul Morris, Dixie State University

Paul Morris, Vice President for Administrative Affairs at Dixie State University, created a culture of community-oriented policing in the Department of Public Safety. By providing the agency with necessary resources and working closely with Chief Blair Barfuss to implement innovative programs, the agency has succeeded in building meaningful partnerships with multiple campus stakeholders.

The agency created two dedicated community-oriented positions. One officer is the Student Housing Liaison Officer, focusing on student housing concerns, training, and assistance. The second officer works with staff, faculty, and student groups to provide assistance, training, and special accommodations.

In response to calls for transparency and accountability arising from George Floyd’s death, the agency created a TRANSPARENCY website to answer community concerns. The website explains agency policies and procedures on topics such as body-worn cameras, anti-bias training, conduct and complaints, and use of force.

The agency created a police patch campaign that has raised awareness about the work of key community organizations the agency works with. The proceeds of sold patches have gone to eight non-profit community organizations.

In response to requests from community partners, the agency created the Self-Defense Awareness and Female Empowerment (SAFE) Course. Taught by public safety staff members the eight-hour course focuses on self-defense and empowerment. Because of high demand, each SAFE Course has been filled within minutes of being announced.

The emphasis on community-oriented policing has been noticed beyond the campus, with several civic and religious organizations in the city of St. George, Utah providing the agency with recognition and awards. By instilling a foundation of community-oriented policing, Vice President Paul Morris is presented with the IACLEA Award for Innovations in Community Oriented Policing.