By Andi Smith

The university police department partnered with counseling services to hold a self defense class last Wednesday.

It was well attended with over 20 members of university staff and students who were eager to learn.

The class was taught by UMPD Chief Tim Alexander and Sargent Joey Glass who demonstrated proper ways to stun an attacker, in addition to offering tips for staying safe.

Chief Alexander reminded students of safety tools offered by UMPD including late night escorts, and the new Alerts app to help students feel safe.

Sargent Glass says the department aims to hold at least one of these classes each semester as apart of their mission to provide the best service possible to students.

“There wasn’t a specific reason for us to host the class when we did. We just want our students to be prepared if they ever face a threat. Here or somewhere else.”

Representatives from university counseling services were also present to offer resources  about safety and who to talk to if you feel you’ve been harmed. You can find information about counseling services online here.

UMPD says that they are always willing to offer additional self defense training for campus groups. You can do this by emailing Chief Alexander at: talexand@montevallo.edu

You can also find additional information on campus safety here.