Cooper University Hospital and Rowan University have entered into an agreement that will enhance public safety on the Camden Health Sciences Campus. According to this agreement, Rowan will provide law enforcement officers for the campus surrounding the hospital and the Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, which is currently under construction.
Emphasis will be given to Camden Police Officers who were recently laid-off from their jobs.
“The area around Cooper’s campus has always been safe, but as we expand our footprint, increasing our security presence becomes an important aspect of our progress,” said George E. Norcross, III, Chairman of the Board at Cooper University Hospital.
“Our two South Jersey institutions have laid the ground work for collaboration in medicine, education and now an increased community presence,” said Ali A. Houshmand, Ph.D., Provost of Rowan University. “Cooper Medical School of Rowan University will serve as a model for future inner city anchors working together to bring great change to a city in need.”
“The safety and security of patients, visitors, staff and students is a priority at Cooper University Hospital, and we have always been diligent in ensuring that our Health Sciences Campus is safe,” adds John P. Sheridan, Jr., President and CEO of Cooper. “As the medical school nears completion and the foot traffic in the neighborhood grows, the presence of law enforcement personnel will significantly benefit the entire neighborhood. “
The Cooper Health Sciences Campus includes the areas around Cooper University Hospital, the Coriell Institute for Medical Research, the Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic, Ronald McDonald House and the Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Cooper has a large force of experienced security officers who patrol the campus around-the-clock, both on foot and in vehicles, to ensure a safe environment. Last year, Cooper also contracted with the Camden County Sheriff’s office for supplemental uniformed officers to help patrol the Health Sciences Campus throughout the week. The Rowan force will replace the supplemental county security force.
The Rowan law enforcement program is expected to launch in Spring 2011.