About the Department of Public Safety

On behalf of the dedicated men and women of the Department of Police and Public Safety, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our web page. In addition to the information and resources you will find here, the Department of Police and Public Safety is working around the clock to maintain a safe atmosphere for students, faculty, and staff. It is my hope that this website information will provide you with valuable insight into our department and its operations, as well as our role in support of the academic mission at Northern Illinois University.

We are a modern, full-service police agency whose commitment goes beyond the typical definition of police work. At NIU, we believe safety is a shared responsibility. We understand the importance of cooperation and education, and so we immerse ourselves in the patterns of student life in our residence halls, classrooms, and recreational facilities. In addition, we cooperate with the City of DeKalb’s Police Department to keep the neighborhoods surrounding our campus safe and secure. Our commitment to community policing makes us part of the fabric of Northern Illinois University and enables us to cultivate true partnerships within the community we serve.

We welcome your comments, suggestions and ideas for making Northern Illinois University an even safer environment. To share your ideas with the Department of Police and Public Safety, please contact me at 815-753-1811. In addition, we are always available for walk-ins at our centrally-located station at 395 Wirtz Drive, across Lucinda Avenue from the parking lot of the Campus Life Building.

Working together we will keep the NIU community a safe place for living and learning.

Bill Nicklas
Vice President of Public Safety and Community Relations