Visit from Public Safety & Compliance Team Boosts Protocols at Minnesota West

Granite Falls, MN – Minnesota West Community & Technical College recently welcomed the expertise of the Minnesota State System Office’s Public Safety & Compliance team to enhance the college's safety and security protocols. Anita Mujumdar, the System Office’s Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, conducted a comprehensive campus safety evaluation across multiple Minnesota West locations from September 9th to 12th.

Royce Overland, Safety Administrator for Minnesota West Community & Technical College, collaborated closely with Mujumdar during her visit. The tour covered key areas on each campus, beginning with Jackson and concluding ahead of schedule at Granite Falls. Overland complimented the college’s staff, particularly faculty in lab and shop areas, and the facilities team for their dedication to maintaining a safe environment.

Mujumdar praised the college's efforts, noting, "During the tour portion of the visit, it was readily apparent that the faculty and staff are committed to creating a safe work environment." Her report reaffirmed the college’s commitment to safety and highlighted the exceptional upkeep of its spaces.

Royce expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the System Office, stating, "It’s nice to have that support for safety, security, and environmental from the System Office. Finding one person for every college with backgrounds in all three areas would be almost impossible, so I lean on the System Office for help."

The Minnesota State System Office’s Public Safety Department, led by John Dingmann, provides comprehensive safety, security, and environmental support to all institutions within the Minnesota State system. Dingmann, who has been in his role for nearly four years, initiated the Campus Assist Visit Program, which ensures that each institution receives annual visits focusing on safety, security, or environmental concerns. His team includes Tracy Worsley (Security Specialist), Dan Alden (Environmental Specialist), and Anita Mujumdar (Safety Specialist), all of whom bring their expertise to campuses across the state.

Through these visits, the Public Safety & Compliance team assists colleges and universities in creating, implementing, and monitoring safety programs and procedures to ensure the well-being of individuals and the protection of system property. The collaborative effort between Minnesota West and the System Office exemplifies the commitment to maintaining safe, compliant, and secure environments for students, staff, and faculty.