University of Arizona is adding a mobile crisis team, Robbins says

By Jill Ryan
Published: Monday, May 8, 2023 - 2:03pm
Updated: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 - 5:45pm

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University of Arizona campus
Mariana Dale/KJZZ
University of Arizona's campus.

The University of Arizona is facing scrutiny about how it handled safety concerns before last year’s on-campus killing of professor Tom Meixner.

During a university safety briefing, President Robert Robbins announced a new mobile crisis team is in development.

The team will be an alternative helpline for someone having a mental health crisis–rather than contacting the University’s police department. Its goals will be “deescalating tense situations and providing mental health services.” 

Other safety changes announced were an expansion to “its keyless building entry program, and [a promise to] conduct campus wide safety exercises.” 

UA has also created a website called University Safety. It includes a message from Robbins explaining what changes will be made, along with latest updates, action plans and resources.

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