The Emergency Preparedness team at EHS works closely with Public Safety to plan for and mitigate incidents impacting the University community and coordinate a response when emergency situations do occur. 

Derek Ziegler, Assistant Director for Emergency Preparedness

As Assistant Director for Emergency Preparedness, Derek is responsible for the development, management, implementation, and continuous improvement of emergency preparedness for the campus community. The Assistant Director (AD) establishes and maintains efforts to identify strategic and operational vulnerabilities; the need for response or continuity planning through exercises, surveys, and operational reviews; opportunities to engage with faculty, staff and students to develop a campus-wide culture of emergency preparedness; and best practices in the industry for application to our University approach.

"I appreciate the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to longstanding traditions like Reunions, Commencement, the bonfire, and the many other unique events that define campus life," Derek says. "It has been personally fulfilling to help infuse some new ideas for emergency management into these well-run and impressive activities."

What Does "Environmental Health and Safety" Mean to You?

Derek: Environmental Health and Safety means establishing and maintaining an overall culture of safety and preparedness. I am fortunate to work with dedicated and knowledgeable colleagues who take seriously their responsibility to helping foster a safer campus environment.