PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Brown University’s interim vice president for public safety, Hugh T. Clements Jr., addressed the campus community on Tuesday, highlighting the university’s commitment to enhancing safety following the tragic shooting on Dec. 13, which claimed the lives of two students and injured nine others.
In his message, Clements stressed that such violence should never occur at Brown or anywhere else. He expressed solidarity with those affected by the tragedy, acknowledging the profound loss, grief, and anxiety lingering within the university community.
The suspect in the shooting, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, was found deceased under circumstances being investigated by authorities. He was also implicated in the recent murder of an MIT physicist, further amplifying concerns about safety in the area.
Clements, who previously served as chief of the Providence Police Department, emphasized his responsibility in this new role, underscoring the need for accountability and improvement in the university’s safety protocols. He articulated a vision for a community-centered approach to public safety rooted in preparation, transparency, and partnership.
In the wake of the shooting, the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management (DPSEM) will enhance its visibility on campus, with an increased presence of security officers in key areas including academic buildings and residential zones. Access to buildings will now require not just a key but also a University ID, a move aimed at strengthening security.
As the campus prepares for the return of students and faculty after the holiday break, phased increases in security staffing will ensure comprehensive coverage. Clements outlined several urgent initiatives set to enhance campus safety by the start of the spring semester. These initiatives include expanding card access, increasing the number of security cameras, and enhancing public safety training.
In addition to these efforts, external firms will conduct an After-Action Review of the Dec. 13 incident, assessing the safety measures in place during the event and the subsequent emergency response. A comprehensive Campus Safety and Security Assessment will also be carried out, evaluating existing security systems and policies while incorporating input from the community.
Looking ahead, the university is committed to equipping faculty, students, and staff with the knowledge to respond effectively to safety threats. New training sessions focused on active shooter preparedness will be offered during the spring semester, based on trauma-informed principles.
Clements reassured the community that increasing safety is a priority, without instilling fear. He noted the university’s dedication to fostering an environment where all members can feel secure and supported in their academic endeavors.
As he settles into his role, Clements aims to honor the victims of the shooting by implementing meaningful changes. He called for solidarity among the university’s community members, advocating for resilience and compassion as they work together to ensure a safer campus.
With a pledge for integrity and transparency, Clements expressed his commitment to building trust and improving safety measures. As Brown University looks forward, the call for active community engagement remains a cornerstone of efforts to create a secure learning environment.