Barbara Bergers named public safety director

Grand Valley State University has promoted Barbara Bergers to the position of director of Public Safety Services at the Allendale campus, effective March 1. Bergers has been assistant director for the past five years.

'Barb has done a very good job managing the campus police operation, with a focus on community policing and preventative and educational programs,' said Tim Schad, vice president for Finance and Administration at Grand Valley. 'Her rich experience provides perspective in dealing with any type of issue that may arise.'

Before coming to Grand Valley, Bergers spent 22 years with the Detroit Police Department, earning the title of lieutenant. She was impressed with Grand Valley's independent police force from the start. 'This department is extremely professional at all levels. Our focus is providing excellent service to the students, staff, faculty and visitors of our community,' she said.

Bergers will oversee a staff that includes 13 sworn officers, three clerical workers, and up to 70 student employees. 'I've been mentored for this position since I came to Grand Valley by the former director, Alan Wygant,' said Bergers. 'I look forward to and anticipate the challenges of this new responsibility.'

Bergers joins the city of Walker's police chief and Grand Rapids Community College's public safety director as the only women in West Michigan to hold such a position. 'The university is very conscious to promote diversity of all kinds,' said Bergers. 'The field of law enforcement is still predominantly male, so this is significant for women to see that this is a viable profession.'