Letter from President Leebron

It’s exciting to know that this fall, Rice will begin the official oneyear countdown to our Centennial Celebration Oct. 10-14, 2012. As we reminisce about all that Rice has achieved during its first 100 years, it should be evident that the university’s greatest asset is our community of students, faculty, staff, alumni, neighbors and other friends.

A major part of our commitment to that community is safety. The Rice University Police Department (RUPD) has done much to ensure that everyone who comes to our campus has a safe, pleasant experience; however, despite RUPD’s relentless dedication and vigilance, Rice is not immune to crime. Given that we’re located in the country’s fourth-largest city, that should not come as a surprise. But there are a number of steps that you can take to help prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime.

I highly encourage you to read the section titled “Your Responsibility” in this guide and
put into practice such tips as registering your bike with RUPD and locking the doors to your room, office and car to discourage theft. Common sense is often your best defense. Please report all suspicious activity to RUPD at 713-348-6000 or through a blue-light phone and notify them right away if you’ve been involved in an incident. A timely tip could give RUPD
the opportunity to issue a campuswide alert that will help prevent others from becoming victims and perhaps lead to the arrest of a criminal.

RUPD can also assist you with emergency medical care, facility safety, parking questions, requests for an escort when you have to cross campus alone after dark, shuttle bus services and other safety issues. If you have concerns about alcohol or other substance abuse, you may also contact the Rice Counseling Center 24 hours a day at 713-348-4867. This guide
offers more information about these services and will help you play a role in keeping Rice safe.

As you begin a year of discovery at Rice University, my wish is that you learn a lot, have fun and be safe.