Campus Safety in Focus: The Role of Cameras at UC

We’re kicking off 2026 with a deep dive into campus safety and technology on this episode of Bridging the Gap. Hosts Darryn Chenault and Kelly Cantwell are joined by Kawanda Dedrick-Thomas, Director of Technical Operations for Public Safety IT, and Noah Rezene, Project Coordinator, to break down how cameras, access control, and digital infrastructure help keep the university community safe. From how camera locations are selected using crime data, to what DTS (Digital Technology Solutions) actually does, to the role of AI-powered analytics, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the systems working behind the scenes every day. The team discusses partnerships with public safety, coordination across campus units, privacy considerations, camera maintenance, and why cameras are about deterrence and safety—not surveillance. Whether you’re a student, parent, staff member, or just curious about how modern campus security works, this episode offers an insightful and approachable look at the teamwork and technology protecting the community. Chapters (00:00:00) - Happy New Year with Public Safety Personnel(00:00:47) - Projects and Operations, Technical Operations(00:02:24) - DTS and Public Safety: How Do They Work Together?(00:04:47) - Deciding where to place a camera on campus(00:07:09) - How Do You Manage UCPD's Security Cameras?(00:10:03) - How Can Crime Scene Cameras Help UC Police?(00:13:15) - Public Safety: Security Cameras on Campus(00:17:47) - Facial Recognition on Security Cameras