University of Memphis Strengthens Building Security

University of Memphis Strengthens Building Security

The University of Memphis is changing the way their students enter campus buildings. Scores of exterior doors are being replaced by new electronic doors that are centrally controlled by a locking system.

Authorities on campus believe it is time for the change based on the current environment.

"Because parents years ago would ask questions about alcohol and sexual assaults, and, well, now they have added to that questions about emergency preparedness. From severe weather to what would we do in the event of having an armed intruder on campus,'' Bruce Harbor, campus chief of police and vice president for administration, told The Commercial Appeal.

The new doors will allow the security teams to lock and unlock the doors on a specific time frame. After-hours, students will be able to let themselves in using their student ID cards.

In addition to the locking schedule, the security team will also be notified if a door has been propped open. Using this tool, students and faculty can feel safe knowing the whole perimeter of their building is secure.

The new security system for the doors totals about $1.75 million. The project is being installed in phases, and is currently in Phase 2 as the administration tries to establish after-hour access to all education and general-use buildings.

The university’s focus on security will shift this summer to the interior of the buildings when they begin to replace the doors to classrooms. A common locking system will be installed on the interior doors that allow them to be locked while opened and closed quickly.

While no current incident has triggered the changes, the administration believes it is time for an update as most of the buildings on campus were constructed in the 1960s.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • Agentic AI Will Revolutionize Cybercrime in 2025 According to New Report

    Malwarebytes, a provider in real-time cyber protection, recently released its 2025 State of Malware report, which reveals insight into the emergence of agentic artificial intelligence (AI), plus the year’s most prominent threats and cybercrime tactics. The report details a significant uptick in the number of known ransomware attacks, the total value of ransoms paid in 2024, and how IT teams can address them. Read Now

  • ESX 2025 Announces Expanded Schedule of Events

    ESX has announced its dynamic 2025 schedule, set to provide an unparalleled experience for professionals in the electronic security and life safety industry. Taking place June 16-19 at the Cobb Galleria Centre, this year’s event features an expanded lineup of educational sessions, hands-on workshops, inspiring main stage speakers, networking opportunities, and an engaging expo floor showcasing the latest technology. Read Now

  • City of New Orleans Launches NOLA Ready Public Safety App Before Super Bowl

    The City of New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP) is pleased to announce the official launch of the NOLA Ready Public Safety App, powered by Motorola Solutions. This new mobile application is designed to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness for both residents and visitors. All individuals planning to attend major events in New Orleans, including the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and other large gatherings, are encouraged to download the app. Read Now

  • 5 Tips to Improve Your Password Security

    Change Your Password Day is right around the corner. Observed every year on February 1, the day aims to raise awareness about cybersecurity and underscores the importance of keeping passwords strong and up to date. Read Now

New Products

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.