Brandeis Stories

October 31, 2025

Brandeis University Police have earned certification status from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission (MPAC), marking a major step forward in professional standards, transparency, and service to the campus community. Only a small number of university police departments in Massachusetts hold this distinction, placing Brandeis among the leaders in campus safety statewide.

This achievement represents a three-year effort to examine and strengthen policies, training, and internal controls. The process required meeting 179 state standards that promote effective, ethical, and accountable policing. It involved peer review, campus collaboration, and continued focus on building trust within the Brandeis community.

“This certification reflects the professionalism and commitment of our public safety team,” said Executive Vice President Stewart Uretsky. “Our police department has embraced best practices, engaged collaboratively across campus, and demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. This is a proud accomplishment for Brandeis.”

The certification effort included policy alignment, emergency planning coordination, and operational improvements across the department. External assessors reviewed every part of the process and conducted an on-site visit to evaluate evidence, interview personnel, and confirm compliance. The result is a department positioned for continued excellence and continuous improvement.

Chief of Police and Interim Associate Vice President of Operations and Public Safety Matthew Rushton emphasized that the honor belongs to both the officers and the community they serve.

“Our success was made possible by the support of our campus partners and the trust of the Brandeis community,” Rushton said. “This recognition is not just a milestone for our department, but a reflection of our shared commitment to a safe, welcoming, and respectful campus. We are proud of this achievement, and even more committed to continuing the work it represents.”

Certification is not a one-time event. The department will undergo ongoing evaluation and a full reassessment in three years to maintain its status. The goal, Rushton noted, is not simply to hold the credential, but to honor the values behind it.

“We see this as a foundation, not a finish line,” Rushton said. “Every standard we meet, every practice we strengthen, and every relationship we build makes our community stronger.”