Dear Friends,
Welcome to the website of the Harvard University Police Department. We’re glad you’ve taken the time to visit us, and to learn more about what it is we do and what we aspire to.
We’re at a critical crossroads for law enforcement in our country, in a time where we, as law enforcement officers, need to better understand the points of views of the diverse individuals whom we serve.
You know, I dislike the term “community policing.” To me, it sounds too much like a slogan, because the true essence of law enforcement and policing is all about how we interact with the people we meet every day. It is fundamentally community-based work, and I tell my officers that it is part of their job to truly become a part of the Harvard community.
I am excited to partner with a variety of student-based groups and with faculty and staff on campus to rethink, and reassess, how we serve you, and also, to determine when another professional might be better suited to provide support, such as during a mental health crisis. We will be transparent in these critical conversations, and I encourage you to be, too.
And I look forward to getting to know more of you and other members of our community, and to saying hello when we run into each other around campus. I’m also eager to hear your thoughts on how we can make you feel safer. Feel free to share with us opportunities that you’d like to see us get involved with. You can also reach out to us online at chief@hupd.harvard.edu with your recommendations.
Working together is always better, as it increases communication and improves relationships, both of which are so incredibly important, especially during these difficult times. Thank you in advance for your willingness to take part in our commitment to making Harvard a safe space, for everyone.
Yours in Partnership,
Vic Clay
Chief of Police
Learn more about Chief Clay and his commitments to transparency, communication, and community involvement, in the Gazette article Police need to see themselves and be seen as a part of the community.