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Public Safety

Message From The Chief

Hello Cardinals, My name is James Assmann, and I’m proud to serve as your Chief of Public Safety at York College. As a CUNY graduate with a Master’s degree in Security Management from John Jay College, and with over 22 years of service in CUNY Public Safety and Campus Police Services, my mission is to help create a safe, fair, and thriving campus community for all students, faculty, and staff. Our Public Safety team is here 24/7 to support you. Whether you're facing an emergency, have a concern, or just need directions—we're just a call or visit away. Don’t hesitate to reach out. At York, safety isn’t just about response—it’s about community engagement, respect, and working together. That includes supporting officer wellness, fostering a positive learning and working environment, and encouraging a culture of trust and accountability. Let’s continue to build a campus where Cardinals feel safe, supported, and ready to soar.

If you have any questions, please call the Public Safety Office at 718-262-2222

Interview with Chief Assmann

👮‍♂️ Chief’s Spring 2025 Message

Progress ✅ | Challenges ⚠️ | What’s Next 🔭

From Chief James Assmann, Director of Public Safety

📢 Emergency Alerts – Getting Louder & Smarter

We’re upgrading our campus PA system to an IP-based speaker network for faster, clearer alerts during emergencies. It’ll work across campus—and it’s coming online soon!

🎥 More Eyes, Safer Campus

We’ve already installed 18 new state of the art security cameras, and more are coming soon! We're also waiting on State funding for 200+ additional cameras and a new access control systems expected in Fall 2026.

🧾 New Visitor Check-In System

Faculty & Staff will soon be able to pre-register guests online. When your visitor shows up, officers will already know they’re expected—easy and secure!

💪 Officer Wellness Matters

We’re launching a new Officer Wellness Program to support both mental and physical health. A strong team = better service for YOU.

🚦 Safer Streets with NYC DOT

We’re working with the Department of Transportation on:

  • Speed bumps

  • Better lighting

  • Red light cameras

  • Safer intersections

📣 Keep reporting unsafe traffic issues—your voice helps make change happen!

🎨 Help Design Our New Parking Tags!

The student parking stickers are getting a makeover to hangtags—and YOU can help pick the design! Keep an eye out for the survey link soon.

📚 Training That Makes a Difference

This year, officers are getting even better at:

  • De-escalation techniques

  • Leadership skills

  • Preparing for body-worn cameras (coming soon across CUNY!)

🚓 Focused Patrols = Safer Spaces

Because of your feedback, we’ve added extra patrols at:

  • The Library 📚

  • Campus Perimeter 🚷

  • Guy R. Brewer Blvd at 5PM rush 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️

✅ Result: Fewer disturbances, less drug activity around outside campus perimeter, and almost zero vehicle break-ins!

🤝 Teaming Up with NYPD

We’re working hand-in-hand with NYPD’s 103rd Precinct to keep the area around campus safe. Quick responses and shared info = stronger protection for all.

🚗 Better Traffic Flow

Rush hour? No problem. We’ve got officers helping manage main parking lot traffic to cut congestion and improve safety.

🔐 Scam Alerts & Safety Training

  • Ongoing Scam Awareness Campaigns 🕵️‍♀️

  • Active Shooter Safety Trainings are coming up – stay ready, and informed.

🌟 What’s Ahead

We’re proud of our progress—but we’re not done yet. Our mission is to make York College a place where every student, faculty, and staff member feels safe and supported.

🙋 Questions or Ideas?

Come see us in ACore room 1M02 or call Public Safety anytime at 718-262-2222. We’re here for you.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed, Stay Cardinal Strong!

—
Chief James Assmann
Director of Public Safety
CUNY York College

Did You Know:

York College was chartered in 1966. York's baccalaureate programs seek to promote three objectives for students:  liberal education, career education, and public service. The York College campus complex is located in Jamaica, Queens, New York. The campus consists of five contiguous buildings, on fifty acres, bounded by Archer Avenue to the North, 165th Street to the East, South Road to the South and 158th Street to the West. The mailing address is 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, Jamaica, New York 11451 (Academic Core Building).