The new sheriff in town
He’s not a big guy, or terribly grimacing. In fact, upon meeting Bill Chew, MSU’s new superintendent of security, one is struck by how nice he is.
In early Sept., Chew moved from California to Minot to create an on-campus security team, the first of its kind at MSU. Under Chew’s direction, MSU will add two daytime security guards and continue to contract with a private firm for evening shifts. The department goal is to become self-sufficient while continuing to work closely with the Minot police department.
"In the past, MSU has relied on the Minot PD for numerous calls for assistance. As the city grows and the dynamics change, Minot PD will become increasingly busier. My hope is to be able to diminish the number of calls for assistance from Minot PD through our own growth as a security department," Chew said.
"As more people arrive in Minot to fill existing employment needs, the tranquility of the city may change. My job in conjunction with Minot PD is to ensure the safety of everyone on campus," he added.
Chew earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration and was also a military policeman while in the U.S. Army. He has a gang task force and undercover drug enforcement background and experience as a probation and parole officer. He most recently worked for seven years with student retention in a K-12 school system in Modesto, Calif.
His method all those years for maintaining order in an area with a high population of gang and drug-related issues was simple: respect. Chew said respect is the constant thread in how he treats and communicates with students, while at the same time holding them accountable to the rules and regulations of the institution.
"There is an atmosphere here of caring about students to ensure they get started on the right foot," Chew said. "I like that about MSU."
As he settles into his position, Chew will look at basic security issues on everything from parking to fire drills to security of property. His responsibilities entail doing the right things for students and taking the proper precautions.
"My daughter, a California native, moved here five years ago and decided to stay, which really surprised me. But I think she liked the kindness of the people and the safety that comes with that," Chew said.
"I am originally from the Midwest and over the years have come to like Minot. I am amazed at how beautiful it is," he added.
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Published: 09/22/11 |