The University of Rochester’s spirit of curiosity and creativity is fueled by the drive of faculty, staff, and healthcare providers who bring new ideas to life every day. At URochester, employees are encouraged to think ambitiously and work purposefully. In the “Living Our Values” series, get to know some of the many individuals who make our lives “ever better” by turning our mission into action each day.
Community. Service. Support.—Meet members of the Public Safety team
Kamaran Moss Sr
Peace Officer, Community Resource Officer
Department of Public Safety
How did you begin your career at the University of Rochester?
I started my career journey at the University of Rochester at 18 years of age in the Emergency Department as a Patient Care Technician. I continued serving in the Emergency Department after becoming an officer. Working in the ED taught me patience and how to better communicate with individuals.
How long have you been with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and what is a typical day like in your position?
I have been with the Department of Public Safety for over five years and currently serve as the Community Resource Officer. In this role, my typical day involves engaging with faculty, staff, and students. I do this in a variety of settings (medical center and academic campus) to strengthen collaboration between DPS and the URochester community.
What skills are important for your role?
Strong communication, active listening, and empathy are essential skills for a successful Community Resource Officer. Equally important is the ability to develop thoughtful, practical plans to maintain a healthy and connected community.
What makes working at the University of Rochester different from other public safety roles?
I believe what sets the University of Rochester apart from other public safety roles is the strong sense of camaraderie and officers’ genuine willingness to support one another. Additionally, the unique nature of our campuses and the diverse locations allow us to wear many different hats, giving us the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles and situations.
How does the University and DPS support your professional growth?
The University and DPS support professional growth through tuition assistance and diverse training opportunities. I have taken advantage of several of these opportunities, serving as a Peer Support Officer and completing training in crisis intervention, field training, and other professional development programs.
Sandra Rivers
Public Safety Officer, Peer Support Officer
Department of Public Safety
How long have you been with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and what is a typical day like in your position?
I have worked in the Department of Public Safety for more than 18 years. A typical day with DPS is focused on maintaining a safe, calm environment and also fostering beneficial community relations with everyone you come in contact with throughout the day. I really enjoy giving stickers to little kids when I see them on the units. Watching their faces light up makes my heart happy.
What do you enjoy the most about working with the campus/community?
What I enjoy most about working for DPS is that the day-to-day calls for service are always different. You get to work with a variety of people while serving the University community. It’s a job that is so rewarding and makes a difference in people’s lives. Also, as a Peer Support Officer, I am there for my coworkers when they have something going on at work or in their personal lives.
What skills are important for your role?
Skills that are important for the role of a Public Safety Officer begin with the ability to be able to communicate with all different types of people. Also, the ability to think on your feet and to keep your composure and professionalism in all situations.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in public safety?
I would advise someone considering a career in DPS to take the leap of faith. You will have the most amazing coworkers while doing a job you will grow to love. Sometimes people are having a really tough day, and being able to stay calm and meet them with understanding makes all the difference