Safety measures focused on continuity with thoughtful adjustments will be in place as George Washington University students return to campus and Washington, D.C., to start the 2025-2026 academic year.
These efforts are largely a continuation of what the university has implemented and adhered to in the past, including GWorld tap access needed to enter many buildings—the University Student Center is open to the public from 7 a.m.-11:59 p.m.—and use of closed-circuit television of public spaces. Security guards will also continue foot patrols around campus and have a presence at the entrances to some of the buildings, including residence halls.
All first-year residence halls, including FSK, as well as District, JBKO, Munson and I-House, will have 24/7 security coverage with guards at the front desk. All other second-year and upperclassmen residence halls will have overnight security coverage from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., which is an adjustment from last academic year.
Residential students will be able to enter all GW residence halls with their GWorld, while visitors—who qualify as any non-residential GW student—are required to sign in when a security guard is present, which is past 10 p.m. at buildings without daytime coverage.
These decisions, a collaborative effort between the Division of Safety and Operations and the Division for Student Affairs, were made not only with the geographical location of each building in mind, but also crime reporting data from the Campus Safety office. The university will monitor the new security posture closely and make changes as needed.
“We are thrilled to welcome students back to campus this fall. As always, we will experience challenges and find opportunities to care for each other and our community,” said Associate Vice President of Campus Safety Katie McDonald. “The Campus Safety team—GW Police Department (GWPD), the Office of Advocacy and Support, GWorld, Emergency Management, EMeRG, Environmental Health and Safety, and Sustainability—is here for you.”
While on campus, a culture of mutual respect is expected as students, faculty, staff and campus police officers and security guards are part of the GW community, and each have a role in maintaining safety.
“Respect is vital to a diverse, socially engaged and globally connected community like GW’s," said Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Colette Coleman. "As each person plays their part to keep our campus environments inclusive for all, I encourage our community members to remember to navigate conflicts with empathy, engage in civil dialogue thoughtfully and explore others’ perspectives with an open mind.”
Alerts and advisories are communicated through multiple channels, including GW Alert (email, text messages, social media), Campus Advisories and GW Guardian App, allowing the university to quickly and efficiently provide updates when needed.
New GW Chief of Police Victor Brito, a Metropolitan Police Department veteran of more than 25 years who is well versed and experienced in prioritizing safety within the city, advises GW students to be mindful and aware of living in an urban area while also expressing his excitement he and the rest of the department have in keeping the campus community safe.
"I strongly encourage you to stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times,” Brito said, who has also served as chief in two Maryland municipalities—Hagerstown and Rockville. “It's great to embrace our urban environment, but it's just as important to stay mindful of your location and situation.
“GWPD is here for you around the clock, without exception, and we are very excited for this academic year.”
The university is monitoring the Trump Administration’s actions that have increased federal law enforcement presence and deployed the National Guard in the District of Columbia. While direct impacts to GW’s operations are not expected at this time, community members may notice increased law enforcement presence in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, as well as across the District. Students are encouraged to always carry their identification and GWorld, especially when they are out in the city and especially on federal land such as the National Mall and monuments.
The university will continue to share updates through the D.C. Federalization page on Campus Advisories. This page provides a list of frequently asked questions, including guidance for international students, and safety resources.