CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Following a tragic on-campus shooting that resulted in a campus-wide lockdown, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is considering mandatory active shooter training for faculty, staff, and students.
In response to the shooting incident, UNC conducted a thorough review facilitated by a third-party group, gathering feedback from over 70 individuals. The comprehensive five-page report outlined recommendations aimed at enhancing campus safety, including the implementation of centralized building safety guidelines, upgrades to camera systems, and ensuring that classrooms have locks operable from the inside.
Among the report’s highlighted recommendations are the introduction of mandatory active shooter training for faculty and staff, as well as armed assailant training for new students during orientation. The university has expressed its commitment to exploring options for standard active assailant training within the upcoming academic year.
Furthermore, UNC Police plans to conduct a multi-agency exercise drill, while efforts are underway to streamline crisis counseling communication processes post-incident. Assessments of campus locks have already commenced, and a dedicated working group is being established to implement an integrated camera management system.
Acknowledging that the implementation of these recommendations will take time, varying from six months to three years, UNC Vice Chancellor George Battle emphasized the importance of preparedness across all areas of campus. He commended the proactive stance taken by law enforcement and emergency management teams in planning and responding to emergencies, stressing the need for comprehensive preparedness in collaboration with external partners.