The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) has been granted $375,000 from the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s Campus Safety Grant Program to enhance security measures across its four campuses. This funding will support the installation of advanced electronic access systems on exterior doors at the college’s locations in Hughesville, La Plata, Leonardtown, and Prince Frederick.
CSM plans to replace traditional key entry with electronic keyless access points, a shift that aligns with broader trends in campus safety measures. This modernization will allow the college to better control and monitor access through a centralized software system, which will manage digital credentials for students, staff, visitors, and vendors.
Dr. Bill Comey, Vice President of CSM’s Operations and Planning Division, emphasized the importance of upgrading to digital systems for enhanced security. “With the increased demand on campuses for more efficient security measures, the transition to primarily digital security systems will enable CSM to provide enhanced security protection,” Comey explained.
The new system will also enable public safety officers to issue digital credentials directly to smartphones, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access campus buildings. This measure is expected to significantly bolster the safety and security of the college community.
The funding initiative is part of a larger effort by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, which has allocated $25 million under the FY 2025 Campus Safety Grant Program. This program aims to assist Maryland’s public and private non-profit colleges and universities in enhancing campus security.
Despite initially applying for $937,000, CSM will use institutional funds to cover the additional costs necessary to complete the security enhancements. This project underscores the commitment of CSM’s administration to safeguarding its campuses and the community.
Dr. Comey also acknowledged the critical roles played by Gary Smith, Director of Public Safety and Preparedness, and Lt. Denise Mohun-Hintze of CSM Public Safety in securing the grant. “The work of these two outstanding individuals made it possible for us to get this award,” he stated, highlighting their efforts in improving campus safety.
