Introduction

In 2023, Hartnell College submitted a Request for Proposal (RFP) for security services across its five campuses. The RFP required guard services and post commanders to ensure the safety and security of all locations. In response, Corey English, with his knowledge of Higher Education Environments recognized an opportunity to provide a tailored solution that not only addressed the immediate needs of Hartnell College but also an underlying organizational challenge. This white paper outlines how GSG Protective Services identified the issue, proposed an innovative hybrid role, and successfully partnered with Hartnell College to enhance security operations and campus safety.

Identifying the Issue

Hartnell College had been struggling to find a qualified Security Director who could meet the specific needs of its diverse campus environment. The administration expressed frustration in their search for a candidate with the right mix of experience and skills. Upon reviewing the RFP, Corey discerned that, beyond providing guard services and post commanders, there was an unmet need for comprehensive management and oversight to bridge the gap left by the unfilled Security Director position.

Proposing a Solution

Recognizing the complexities of the RFP, GSG Protective Services proposed three options. The third and most innovative option was the introduction of a hybrid Security Director position. Employed by GSG Protective Services, this role would function as the de facto Security Director for Hartnell College, providing oversight and management across all five campuses.

The hybrid position responsibilities included:

  • Oversight of the guard force at all campuses
  • Scheduling of officers and maintaining post orders
  • Ensuring compliance with safety protocols
  • Providing excellent customer service to the Hartnell community
  • Integrating responsibilities of the intended Security Director, such as coordinating with campus leadership, law enforcement, and overseeing security-related training programs

Collaborative Redefinition of the Role

Hartnell College, in particular Graciano Mendoza, Vice President of Administrative Services and Joseph Reyes, Executive Director of Facilities, Planning, and Construction Management responded positively to this innovative proposal. Both GSG Protective Services and Hartnell College collaboratively revised the job description, merging the functions of the Security Director with the new hybrid role. This marked the first implementation of such a position at Hartnell College and by GSG Protective Services, but both parties were confident in its potential success.

Recruitment and Selection

After finalizing the job description, GSG Protective Services launched a targeted recruitment campaign. Unexpectedly, a former GSG manager, Edwina Tangitau, who had been a client at an Oxnard account, expressed strong interest in the role. Following a rigorous three-stage interview process, Edwina was selected for the position.

Edwina quickly proved invaluable, demonstrating strong communication skills, organizational acumen, and a dedicated work ethic. She gained credibility with the security officers who transitioned to GSG in September 2023 and with the leadership at both the main and remote campuses. She also built rapport with Monterey County law enforcement, including the Salinas Police Department, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, Soledad Police Department, and King City Police Department.

Immediate Impact and Results

Upon assuming her role, Edwina made significant progress addressing issues that arose from the Security Director position being vacant for over a year and a half. One major challenge was the diminished visibility of security personnel, leading to a perception within the Hartnell community that security had become less of a priority. Edwina addressed this by organizing a “Meet Security” event at the Main Campus, allowing students, faculty, and campus leaders to meet her and the post commanders. This initiative helped rebuild trust and visibility.

On her second day, the team successfully orchestrated an arrest of a known transient who had caused trouble for over a year. Edwina’s guidance ensured swift police response, and the suspect trespassed from the college.

Edwina also initiated efforts to improve campus safety, including:

  • Establishing a working relationship with the Salinas Police Department
  • Partnering with Student Life for Active Shooter Response and Campus Safety presentations during National Campus Safety Awareness Month
  • Registering Hartnell to participate in the National Great Shakeout for the first time in years
  • Creating the college’s first subcommittee for Workplace Violence Prevention
  • Hosting the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center to raise awareness during National Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Edwina re-established workplace violence training for Hartnell staff, reinforcing the importance of preparedness. Additionally, GSG hosted “Coffee with a Cop” with the Salinas Police Department and organized CPR and AED training for Hartnell staff and students to equip the community for emergencies.

Conclusion

GSG Protective Services successfully identified a critical gap in Hartnell College’s security framework and proposed an out-of-the-box solution. By creating and filling a hybrid Security Director role, GSG Protective Services not only met the immediate needs outlined in the RFP but also provided Hartnell College with a comprehensive and sustainable security management solution. This strategic partnership highlights the importance of listening to client needs, innovating in problem-solving, and maintaining flexibility to adapt to unique environments.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, GSG Protective Services is committed to deepening its partnership with Hartnell College. The success of this program sets a precedent for future collaborations where GSG can apply its expertise and creative problem-solving to meet complex security needs. As we continue to refine and improve the hybrid role, GSG aims to provide even greater value to clients, fostering safer and more secure environments for educational institutions and their communities. GSG Protective Services remains dedicated to innovation, excellence, and partnership, paving the way for a new standard in campus security management.