St. Edward's University Hires First-Ever Emergency Preparedness Chief

SOUTH AUSTIN, TX -- In what could be viewed as a sign of the times, St. Edward’s University has hired its first-ever director of “Campus Resilience,” charged with the task of ensuring the college community is prepared for emergency situations.

In a website post, university officials said Billy Atkins will lead efforts to ensure those on campus are ready for emergencies, both natural and man-made. Atkins previously worked at a local Homeland Security and Emergency Management unit.

“St. Edward’s is a growing and thriving university community in the heart of one of America’s fastest growing cities,” Atkins said in a prepared statement. “The same environment that provides so many opportunities for students also introduces risk. Having solid safety and emergency plans in place supports a learning environment where students can flourish.”

St. Edward’s officials said Atkins’ past experience made him an “ideal candidate” to helm the newly created position focused on campus safety and emergency preparedness.