Many people may not be aware that the Operations Division comprises several departments: Public Safety, Facilities Services, Dining Services, Information Technology (IT), and the Bookstore. There has been a whirlwind of changes within this division since June in an effort to provide the best in customer services to our students, staff, and faculty.
On Dec. 3, Maggie Devine-Pennock joined the division on a full-time basis as Operations Manager. After 10 years working in events she is very excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the every day operations of the University as well as involvement in the plans for the future growth of our campus.
Department of Public Safety (DPS)
In November, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) conducted an Emergency Preparedness Tabletop Exercise with Student Life to test and evaluate the department’s preparedness to deal with an incident that negatively affected the campus. The exercise was extremely successful and joined various departments that would need to work together in dealing with an emergency on campus.
Additionally, DPS worked directly with the IT Department to test all aspects of the Emergency Notification System, which included text-messaging, video displays, cable, e-mail, and internal voicemail. The test was deemed a success.
DPS held its First Annual Public Safety Officer Recognition Ceremony to recognize officers for their performance throughout the year. Officers Nick Smith and Duela Nelson received Officer of the Year Honors for their continued dedication to providing the highest-level service to the university community.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)
New computers and printers were added to Wilson 217 lab and the Library
Moved USP website from off-campus host to on-campus
Made necessary updates to change domain from USIP.EDU to USP.EDU
Implemented new Windows Live e-mail system for students, providing more functionality
Implemented Emergency Alert System
Implemented new Facilities work order system
Implemented online student evaluation of teaching system
Expanded wireless coverage to Rosenberger Hall and public areas of residence halls
Provided telephone and data service to Chester Hall residence hall
Provided telephone, data, and cable TV service to Gunter Hall residence hall.
Upgraded data backup system, including new tape library
Upgraded Colleague ERP system to release 18
Completed transition from Blackboard to Angel course management system
Upgraded spam filter to a new device/new technology
Implemented online password recovery system
FACILITIES SERVICES
In mid-October, Facilities reinstated a second shift, providing custodial coverage on a 24-hour basis Monday through Friday. Effective January 14, the Facility Services expanded its coverage to include representatives from HVAC and locksmith departments to be on site to handle emergencies and any work requests until 6 p.m. mid-week. As always, you may call security during off-hours with any emergencies or work requests.
The Streetscapes Project on the south side of Woodland Avenue is just about complete. The plantings will be done in early spring. We have informed PennDot that we want to delay the start of the north side of Woodland Avenue until after spring semester. Thanks one and all for your patience during this project.
What’s on the Horizon …
The development of a comprehensive Recycling Program.
Expand our current community partnership with the West Philly Tool Exchange.
Working on a few capital projects including 4101 Woodland Avenue (former Penn Life building) ….. future home of the Mayes College of Healthcare Business and Policy.
Please welcome Dan Waterman, Director of Facilities Services. Dan comes to USP with experience in overseeing the day-to-day operations of a two million square-foot, multi-tenant corporate office complex known as “Centre Square” and managing capital and construction projects. Dan will be handling the day-to-day operations at USP so that John McCaffrey, Executive Director of Facilities, can concentrate his efforts on the major capital projects.
DINING SERVICES
Over the holiday break the cafeteria was closed in order to complete some of the renovation projects, including new tiling at the various stations.
We are recruiting staff and faculty volunteers who are interested in being part of a Dining Services Committee, from among those who eat in the cafeteria and/or plan catering events. Your input is very important in helping Parkhurst to provide improvements in quality and service. If you are interested, please contact m.pennock@usp.edu .
MATTHEWS BOOKSTORE:
January 28 and 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: students will be able to sell their books back for cash.
January 28 – Feb. 1: there will be a sale at the bookstore (20 percent off all clothing and gift items w/ deeper discounts on select items)
April 1 and 2: Herff-Jones Class Ring sales representative will be in the bookstore
April 14 and 15: Jostens Class Ring sales representative will be in the bookstore
Graduation Gift ideas …. New diploma frames will be available at the bookstore and online @ www.universityframes.com towards the end of February