New safety escort program launches for TXST students

The Texas State University Police Department has announced a partnership with Student Government to enhance safety on the San Marcos Campus with a new Student Safety Escort Program.

Under the program, a team of trained student workers will provide fellow students with safe rides around campus and from campus to designated areas off-campus. Students can receive free rides on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. A maximum of two students can ride in each safety escort. Students must show their Bobcat Card at the time of pick-up. Two escorts will be on hand for each ride to ensure the escorts’ safety.

The Student Safety Escort Program can drop off students anywhere within the red border of this map. To request a ride, call 512-245-1689.

“This is an exciting and collaborative approach to student safety on campus,” UPD Chief Matthew Carmichael said. “I like to think of it as ‘students protecting students.’ Having a partnership with Student Government makes good sense and provides an opportunity for our students to have ownership of campus safety.”

For more information about the Student Safety Escort Program, or to apply to volunteer, visit: https://www.police.txst.edu/programs-and-services/student-safety-escort.html

The new Student Safety Escort Program adds another transportation option for students along with Nite Cats, a late-night, on-demand service that’s also available to faculty and staff. Offered by Transportation Services, Nite Cats provides rides during the fall and spring semesters on Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 p.m.-2 a.m., and on Sundays from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Nite Cats and the new Student Safety Escort Program provide services previously offered by a discontinued shuttle service called Bobcat Bobbies.