Student Voice Committee
The Student Voice Committee was launched in the fall 2025 to help shape the public safety environment at VCU by providing students a direct channel of communication to VCU Police leadership, including the Chief of Police. The committee focuses on honest, respectful discussion about their police department. Members also hear directly from command staff about policy and crime prevention strategies.
As a student-led advisory board, members help set the agenda, share concerns they have experienced or heard from their peers and propose policy/ response changes for consideration. By amplifying student perspectives, the committee guides VCU Police toward a safer, more inclusive community.
VCU Police leadership values every voice – especially the students they protect. Together, leadership and students collaborate on ways of improving officer engagement, community connection, event response, and more. A primary goal is mutual understanding, where viewpoints from all parties are shared, respected and celebrated.
Students from all majors and both campuses are encouraged to apply. VCU Police leadership welcomes diverse perspectives to improve service and strengthen community ties.
Qualifications/Application:
- Actively enrolled VCU student (25-26, undergraduate or graduate level programs)
- Preparedness and ability to attend bi-monthly meetings
- All majors/areas of study encouraged
- Submission of application, resume and letter of interest
- Participation in four hour ride-along with VCU Police officer
- Sign “Member Expectations Statement”
For those interested in applying, please begin by filling out this application form.
Any student who would like to speak in more details about this committee can message Sgt. Jasmine Merricks and Sgt. Shola Kayode.
For more information on VCU Police's ride-along program, please fill out this interest form.
VCU NEWS: VCU Police creates student advisory committee to help reimagine policing.
Mission Statement
The Office of the Chief of Police at Virginia Commonwealth University invites student engagement through the Student Voice Committee, reaffirming the department’s commitment to fostering open dialogue, mutual respect and meaningful collaboration between law enforcement and the student body. The Committee’s mission is to reimagine the role of policing within the campus community by promoting transparency, advancing equity and cultivating a shared vision for safety and justice.
Through the inclusion of diverse perspectives and lived experiences, the Committee aims to bridge gaps in understanding, address student concerns and co-develop community-centered strategies. These efforts are intended to reflect the collective values and aspirations of both students and the Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department.