U.S. Senator Chris Murphy Commends Fairfield's Sacred Heart University for New Safety App

U.S. Senator Chris Murphy stopped by Fairfield Wednesday to commend Sacred Heart University on the implementation of its SHU Safe phone application.

As part of his effort to reduce the number of sexual assaults on college campuses, Murphy has called on the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Justice to adopt the innovative technology and use it as a model for other colleges.

SHU Safe is available for both iPhone and Android users and offers quicker access to emergency services as well as other safety features.

The primary function of SHU Safe is to serve as an emergency communication tool between the University community and campus security. SHU Safe offers three major features: Emergency call, iReports and safety check.

Read more about SHU Safe here.

In his remarks, Murphy thanked Sacred Heart not only for SHU Safe but for being a leader in campus safety.

“This is just the latest example on the part of Sacred Heart of a robust commitment to being a leader in enhancing campus safety,” Murphy said in a press release. “SHU Safe is a life saver, and every single college and university across the country should have the advantage of this new app. Its genius is its simplicity. It’s about getting information in the most effective and efficient way possible to Campus Safety as quickly as possible.”

Murphy also praised the features of the app, noting that the “check-in” feature empowers students to take control of their own campus, monitor themselves and have peace of mind. He believes the most innovative feature is the ability to report something suspicious.

SHU President John Petillo commended Mike Trimble, vice president for Information Technology & Security, and the entire Public Safety team for recommending and implementing the SHU Safe application.

Read more about the press conference here.

Senator Chris Murphy talks about SHU Safe during the press conference. From left are Stephanie Trelli, Nicole Gittleman, Murphy and President John Petillo. Photo via www.sacredheart.edu.

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