Division of Finance & Administration News

Each week, we highlight the work being done in our departments. We appreciate the efforts our staff members make that support UNT and make it a great place to learn and work!

If you want to know more about the work our staff members do for UNT, check out these news media stories from our current academic year.
You can also find archived news from 2023-24 by clicking here.
official portrait of Angela SietsemaSpotlight on sharing our expertise

In Risk Management Services, our staff is able to share real-world training and experiences with our student interns and through training we offer to faculty, staff and students. But, we are always looking for more ways to engage and to provide support to our campus community.

In our Environmental Health and Safety program, new registered sanitarian and Public Health Program Manager Angela Sietsema found a way to offer more support. She was recently appointed to serve on the College of Health and Public Service’s Public Health Advisory Board. This will help the college, which is transitioning to the Ryan College of Business, by giving professional guidance to faculty and students at UNT. It also helps our staff keep in touch with new talent and helps us remain connected to our mission here on campus.

Posted May 5, 2025

 

 

Corporal Causey and Clover in their first official portraitSpotlight on Clover's first official UNT portrait

The UNT Police Department's community service dog, Clover, has grown so much since the department adopted her in September. In April, she turned 8 months and weighed in at 63 pounds -- nearly full grown and time for her first official UNT portrait.

Things didn't quite go as planned because Clover had much to explore at the photographer's studio. Click here to enjoy a video of Clover exploring and ignoring her partner, Cpl. David Causey, as she finds much better things to do than sit still for a photo.

Eventually, University Brand Strategy and Communications Assistant Director of Photo/Video Ahna Hubnik was able to get Clover's attention long enough to get three great photos.

Posted April 29, 2025

Jimmy Grounds photo with the UNT System Way to Go logo and starSpotlight on giving praise

Kudos are in order for Director of Asset Management Jimmy Grounds for showing “We Care” and “Better Together” values recently.

He received a “Way to go!” from UNT Frisco Director of Operations Shauna Barbato. She praised his dedication and teamwork, writing in the note that Jimmy “consistently goes above and beyond, accommodating the needs of our team and ensuring assets are updated with precision and care.”

UNT faculty and staff who know someone who deserves recognition can send a “Way to go!” message on the UNT System site by clicking here. You'll be directed to sign into your UNT account to fill out a form outlining who you're honoring and what they did.

Posted April 21, 2025

Hannah Taylor standing while holding a diplomaSpotlight on continuing professional education

Congratulations are in order for Training and Exercise Coordinator Hannah Taylor, who recently graduated from FEMA's National Emergency Management Basic Academy.

According to FEMA, the National Emergency Management Basic Academy provides a foundational education in emergency management by supporting those in their early careers through a training experience combining knowledge of all fundamental systems, concepts, and practices of cutting-edge emergency management.

While also working to complete her master’s degree here at UNT, Hannah participated in the academy which requires 3 weeks of classroom training.

 

Posted April 14, 2025

Two new officers standing in front of the police department mural.Spotlight on new police officers

UNT Police Department recently welcomed two new officers recently.

Davionne Campbell, shown on the left, previously worked for The Colony Police Department and became a police officer after serving in the military.

Chaz Walzer, shown on the right, just graduated from the academy. He is an alum of UNT and previously had worked for the police department as a non-sworn public safety officer.

Posted April 7, 2025

Some of the service awards recipients posed with UNT leadershipSpotlight on Service Award recipients

Departments in the Division of Finance & Administration support the university often in "behind-the-scenes" ways, providing services essential to  operations, maintenance, safety and funding.

This year, the university recognized more than 60 of our staff members who had milestone years of service in 2024, including:

  • 30 years: Jorge Orozco and Terry Wilson

  • 25 years: Lt. Edward Fleming, Cpl. Craig Simons, Cpl. Pete Uranga and Richard Westbrook

  • 20 years: James Adams, Sharon Bercel-Kirkpatrick, Van Cross, Estela DeJesus, Delfina Espinoza, Sgt. Cody Howell, Kenneth Kindle, Keith Kregel, James Lewis, Delbert Phillips, Lance Standifer, Ofc. Chad Terrill, Tony Valdes and John Waldrop

  • 15 years: Edie Brooks, Lt. John DeLong, Josh Hamman, Mary Howard, Cassandra Nash, Sonia Perches, Neely Shirey

  • 10 years: Bruce Anthony, Jose Benavides Jr., Lt. Nicholas Brauchle, Cpl. Daniel Bruce, Rafiu Fashina, Andron Franklin, Pedro Hernandez, Tennie Jones, Randal Martin, Oxsormira Neira, Edwin Orozco, Jonas Powell, Adam Stinchcomb

  • 5 years: George Adams, Cassie Archer, Daniel Berry, Robert Blythe, Sally Carne, Simone Chambers, Chris Cooper, Monica Delarosa, Conlin Dempsey, Karl Hammond, Desiree Hubbard, Eva Hurtado, Karen Ishee, Matthew Long, Norvell McClure Jr., Robert Moreno, Michael Munywoki, Cpl. Christian Mutters, Carl Parsons, Michelle Patnett, Alaina Replogle, Paul Smith, Royce Stille, Beth Wells

Posted April 4, 2025

Facilities top winners in the salsa contestSpring heats up with salsa contest

Facilities spiced things up with a salsa contest in February. Prizes were awarded for the best salsas and winners are pictured in the top photo. Staff members gathered for food and fun.

First place salsa went to Tammy McDaniel, Executive Assistant for Facilities, pictured on the left. Second place went to Cheryl Smith, Facilities Planner, pictured in the middle. Third place went to Ellen Wall, Facilities Personnel Operations Manager, pictured on the right.

 

Posted March 24, 2025

Presentation of the award to the chili cook off winnerSpotlight on friendly competitions

During the colder February weather, staff at Transportation Services felt a craving for chili. What started as a joke about having a chili cook-off to satisfy that craving became a reality recently when the Transportation Services department challenged the UNT Police Department to a chili competition.

The competition brought out 10 challengers from both departments and a variety of chili types - from mild to spicy, from beef-based to chicken-based, some that were stew-like and some that were soup-like. Judges from both departments plus outside experts from UNT Housing and Risk Management Services sampled each chili and rated it on taste, smell, texture and appearance.

Cpl. Lahoma Vaughn, center, from the UNT Police Department took home the prize for best chili. She was awarded a plaque and ribbon by Chief Ramona Washington, left, and Interim Executive Director for Transportation Services Ed Reynolds, right.

Posted March 17, 2025

Vice President Clayton Gibson exits a Night Flight vanNight Flight vans get upgraded look

The days may be heating up but nights just got a little cooler with Transportation Services’ new Night Flight vans. Night Flight is a service provided by Transportation Services. There are three vans that pick up students to transport them between two locations on campus from 7 pm to 2 am every day during the fall and spring semesters, except for when UNT is closed or classes are not in sesssion.

The vans used in Night Flight were plain white passenger vans, but recently Transportation Services newly-branded the vans so that they are partially green with the big UNT flying eagle logo emblazoned on the sides. Styling the vans this way will make them easily recognizable for students using the service.

If you know a student who could use Night Flight, tell them to download the TripShot app to schedule their ride. The TripShot app shows students where the vans are located and helps students identify the van as it approaches them for their ride.

Posted March 3, 2025

Vice President Clayton Gibson stands with Building Representative of the Year Award Winner Gylynn HansonBuilding Representative of the Year Award
Congratulations goes to the Division of Finance & Administration's Senior Executive Assistant Gylynn Hanson, pictured with VP and CFO Clayton Gibson. She recently won the Outstanding Building Representative Award from Facilities for her efforts to keep building occupants informed and 
connected with Facilities staff.

The Building Representative program was created to facilitate the communication between Facilities, its partners, and building occupants. UNT has about 184 buildings and 125 building representatives.

Building representatives are UNT employees who have roles in ensuring that buildings and occupants are prepared.  Building representatives should have a broad understanding of the unique needs and activities of the department(s) in their building. They distribute important information, support programs and activities that require coordination of building operations, and act as liaisons for a number of other key functions. 

Find out more about the UNT Building Representative program on this page.

Posted Feb. 24, 2025

Department representatives stand in front of a table that includes awards for police and facilities departments.Two division departments receive Institutional Effectiveness awards
The UNT Police Department, represented by (ret.) Capt. Mark Bergstrom, left, and Facilities, represented by Director of Facilities Peter Palacios, right, were awarded Institutional Effectiveness awards on Jan. 29 for excellence in their support of UNT’s mission. 
These awards are determined by the Office of the Provost, which has an institutional effectiveness process that complies with the principles of accreditation of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is focused on improving UNT's student learning outcomes and services while increasing student success and institutional quality.
Award-winning departments are recognized for going beyond compliance in their dedication to continuous improvement at UNT. The awards ceremony is held annually at UNT.
Academic units are recognized as well as administrative units, such as the Police Department and Facilities.
In congratulating the two departments on their award, VP Clayton Gibson noted that, "Excellence is not a one-time achievement - it is a continuous pursuit. These awards reflect our UNT Values, especially the Be Curious value, which urges us to seek opportunities to enhance our positive impact here at the university and our community."
Posted Feb. 17, 2025
 
An image from the child-friendly locations resource mapSpotlight on service to students who are parents
UNT is deeply committed to supporting students, including those who are navigating school and parenthood at the same time. The Center for Belonging and Engagement has a list of resources for parents, such as special parking for expectant parents which is provided through the Transportation Services department.
In Facilities, Geographic Information Systems Specialist Clinton McBride also recently helped the center with a project for parents. McBride completed an interactive map of child-friendly locations on campus. 
This map, a screenshot of which is at left, is being used by the Center for Belonging and Engagement, Student Success and UNT Libraries to show students who are parents where they can take their children for food and entertainment. 
Program Manager for Student Success, Stacey Polk, had this to say: “Clinton went above and beyond in refining and editing our map, taking the time to show us how it was built, the data we could pull from it, and how we could continue to update it as our campuses grow. His thoughtfulness in ensuring the map is both functional and adaptable has been invaluable.”
Posted Feb. 10, 2025
four photos in a collage showing various landmarks in Washington, D.C.Spotlight on professional development
Executive Assistant for Facilities Tammy McDaniel recently attended NAPAHE (the National Association of Presidential Assistants in Higher Education) conference, held in Washington, D.C.
The conference offered networking opportunities with peers from many other states and Puerto Rico.
She and other executive assistants from UNT attended sessions that included topics such as working on positive resolutions, event planning and using AI (artificial intelligence). 
Tammy and the other assistants from UNT were able to get a tour of the U.S. Capitol by a staff member who had worked there for more than 47 years, plus they were able to take in some sight-seeing during the down time when the conference was not in session.

Posted Feb. 3, 2025
UNT Police Assistant Chief Jeremy PolkAssistant Chief Jeremy Polks completes FBI National Academy training
UNT Police Assistant Chief Jeremy Polk, a UNT alumnus, recently returned to campus after being selected for the 292nd session of the FBI's National Academy. He was one of only six university police department officers selected for this latest session of the FBI Academy.
"When I applied seven years ago, I was a different person," Polk says. "Most of the individuals who are accepted have about 20 years of experience in the field. You'd think they'd take it easy on us with the training. But they definitely did not."
The class consisted of men and women from 48 states, the District of Columbia and Guam, and included members of law enforcement agencies from 27 countries, eight military organizations and five federal civilian organizations. Trainees had to master the equivalent of two undergraduate and four graduate academic courses on theoretical frameworks for law enforcement, counterterrorism and public safety, offered in partnership with the University of Virginia. Each 12-hour day was packed with physical endurance activities, academics and evening forums with keynote speakers who are experts in their fields.
Read more about Polk’s experience in the UNT alumni magazine, The North Texan.

Posted Jan. 28, 2025

 

 

An image of a person dressed as Santa standing next to the department associate vice presidentSpotlight on Facilities year end
The Facilities department in the Division of Finance & Administration encompasses so many areas - custodial, grounds, maintenance, planning/design/construction, geographic information systems, and more.
Each December, this department of more than 300 staff members comes together to celebrate their work and the end of the fall semester. Santa Claus is always a huge hit with staff, as are the door prizes. This year, new UNT President Harrison Keller joined the annual breakfast by greeting and speaking with staff members as they took some time off from their work to relax and enjoy food and friendship.
This much needed relaxation time comes after a fall semester where the department completed hundreds of work orders for needs around campus. They also participate in the annual Safety Walk each fall with the Student Government Association. That allows their staff to walk campus at night to find any poorly-lit spots that need to be addressed, as well as any other safety hazards.
Campus community members can fill out their own work order any time of the day or night. Simply go to the Facilities website and click the "Service Request" button on the home page. Service requests will be completed during business hours and the person who filled out the service request will receive emailed updates about the issue until it is completed.
During the winter break at UNT, from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1, Facilities has an on-call crew. The UNT Police Department will help notify that crew in case of an emergency need (such as a burst pipe). On campus facilities-related emergencies during winter break can be reported to the police's non-emergency line, 940-565-3000.
Posted Dec. 16, 2024
 
Boxes of donated toys lined up inside the Transportation Services office.Spotlight on parking citation forgiveness
This year, Transportation Services kicked off its second annual Toys for Tickets program. The program is aimed at citation forgiveness by helping to also raise donations for the WFAA Santa's Helpers program.
The way Toys for Tickets works is that those with citations -- some exceptions apply -- can purchase a toy for half the cost of their citation. For example, if the citation is for $25 then they can purchase a toy for $12.50. They bring the toy and the receipt to the Transportation Services office and the entire citation is forgiven, as the toy is added to UNT's Santa's Helpers donations. So far this year, the department has received several hundred donations as part of the program. In 2023, they filled up a whole Night Flight bus with the donations and they expect to exceed those donations this year.
This year, Toys for Tickets runs until Dec. 13. After that, all toys will be added to the donations being collected around UNT and, through the WFAA program, will be distributed to children and families in need. Read more about the 2024 WFAA Santa's Helpers program here.
Encouraging donations while allowing those paying off citations to receive a discounted rate is one way the parking and transit staff give back to the UNT community.
Posted Dec. 9, 2024
 
K-9 Clover, a black lab puppy, laying on a tile floor with a green ballVisit with K-9 Clover!
When the UNT Police Department adopted (then) 8-week-old K-9 Clover in September, they knew she'd be a great ambassador for campus.
In the weeks that followed, she embarked on a series of visits with small work groups to begin her socialization process.
She has also been seeing a trainer weekly to learn the needed skills to become an official therapy dog, a process that is ongoing until she can take her test at 1 year of age.
Now that she has received some initial socialization and has updated vaccinations, she will join President Keller's office for a monthly open house. This is time for the community to come visit with her and the staff in the office. It's a casual come-and-go event. K-9 Clover's partner, Cpl. David Causey, runs the UNT Police Department's Community Engagement team and will be on hand to answer questions.
 
Upcoming times and dates for the open house at Hurley Suite 201:
  • 4-5 pm on Dec. 4
  • 1-2 pm on Jan. 13
  • 3-4 pm on Feb. 4

Follow the UNT Police Department's social media (@UNTPolice on Facebook, Instagram and X) for updates on future open houses and other events that will feature K-9 Clover.

Posted Dec. 2, 2024
Four photos of VP Clayton Gibson with different staff team groupsSpotlight on nighttime staff
Each semester, Vice President Clayton Gibson schedules time to visit with the nighttime staff working in Facilities, Transportation Services and UNT Police Department.
These groups include custodial, Night Flight drivers and staff, and patrol and dispatch. They work hard throughout the night to ensure campus is safe and clean.
Pictured clockwise from top left: Clayton speaks with the Night Flight drivers, most of whom are UNT students dedicated to helping other students by providing safe rides on our shuttles between two points on campus; Clayton checking in with custodial night staff who work overnight shifts (not pictured: one team works and an early to mid-morning shift); Clayton with two different police shifts - police shifts rotate out every few days and switch from day shift to night shift every few months to allow officers and dispatchers to better connect with the UNT community at different times.
Posted Nov. 25, 2024
Sally Carne holding an awardSpotlight on professional development
Professional development opportunities are important, including training and sharing our expertise with others here at UNT and elsewhere.
In October, International Risk Control Coordinator Sally Carne showed the We Care part of our UNT Values by sharing her expertise with the Dallas Chapter of the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter Society (CPCU).
She and a group of fellow panelists were invited to speak about the paths their careers have taken them in the field of Risk Management.
Sally works with our Emergency Management and Safety Services team, embedded within Risk Management Services. Sally oversees the International Travel Registration and Approval Process for faculty, staff, students, and guests traveling on university-related international trips. She assists with coordinating insurance, reviewing safety information and protocols at the various travel destinations, and tracking our travelers to provide them with information for a successful and safe trip.
Providing opportunities for our talented staff to share their knowledge and learn from their peers is important to ensuring UNT remains on top of best practices -- and continues to encourage learning.
Posted Nov. 18, 2024
 
 
police officer watching a student trying to walk a straight line while wearing "drunk goggles"Spotlight on police and community engagement
The Community Engagement team within the UNT Police Department hosts dozens of events each semester. In the fall semester so far, they've held 26 events in August, 21 events in September and 46 events in October -- 93 opportunities to work with UNT students, faculty and staff.
Events include monthly programs, such as new hire training where new employees can learn about the work done at the police department and how to contact the campus police should a need arise.
These also include presentations to groups. A selection of presentations can be found on the UNT Police website but they can also customize a program for UNT campus groups. All presentations are offered for free to any UNT campus group, whether an official organization, a group of coworkers or others.
Hands-on programming is another offering from the police community engagement team. This includes a one-hour self-defense course, currently taught on Tuesdays at Pohl Rec Center, as well as events such as Snack Chat, Pedal Cart, and Coffee with the Cops. The next big event is Coffee with the Cops from 8 am to 10 am on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
Posted Nov. 11, 2024
Vice President Clayton Gibson stands with staff from the Work Control team and their award.Work Control in Facilities named Outstanding Department
The Facilities Work Control department recently received an Outstanding Department award during UNT's fall Staff Luncheon.
This team manages all service tickets to ensure repairs are addressed in a timely fashion. In the fall 2024 semester alone (as of Oct. 31), they successfully managed and closed more than 4,500 service work orders. They are adept at handling a high volume of requests efficiently and without letting the high pressure demands of their job get to them. This team is always ready with a smile and eager to help.
Their dedication showed during Mean Green Move-In, which saw more than 10,000 students moving into residence halls. They worked on proactive measures to help with last-minute readying of the halls and through the first few days of move in -- 12 days straight without a day off. This was coupled with an issue that led to multiple buildings losing power. Throughout it all, the core team of three staff members continued to show their commitment and calm.
This team previously has won the Teamwork Award for their efforts. They consistently provide comprehensive support to our campus and remain deeply committed to our students, faculty and staff.
Posted Nov. 4, 2024
people in line to receive foodSpotlight on Better Together
Each fall and spring semester, our entire division comes together for a picnic lunch. That's roughly 300 daytime staff members. Separately, we host late-night luncheons for the roughly 150 nighttime staff members who work for Facilities, UNT Police and Transportation Services.
This year, at our daytime picnic, we also held a homemade dessert contest and a cornhole tournament. Madelyn Schwartz with our Controller's Office won third place in the dessert contest with her Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping. Ofc. Lahoma Vaughn won second place with her cake bites, which were featured in four flavors: caramel apple, butter pecan, pumpkin spice, and chocolate. And, Margarita Venegas, the division's communications director, won first place with her Rocky Road cake pops. The Grounds team in Facilities took home first place after besting our other cornhole teams from UNT Police, Equal Opportunity/Title IX, Risk Management and the University Budget Office.
Taking time to spend with each other helps solidify our collaborative partnerships and gives us all a chance to relax and get to know each other.
Posted Oct. 28, 2024
Vice President Clayton Gibson and staff members look at baked goods for saleSpotlight on charitable donations
UNT's Facilities department recently held a fundraiser for the State Employee Charitable Campaign. Staff members created a variety of desserts -- truffles, cookies, pies and more -- and other items -- breads, tamales, desk decor -- for sale. They raised $1,600 to assist agencies in need of donations through this campaign.
The State Employee Charitable Campaign is an annual workplace giving and fundraising initiative authorized by the Texas Legislature. It usually is held in October for UNT faculty and staff to donate a one-time payment or ongoing payroll withdrawal to the charities of their choice. There are nearly 300 charities from which employees can choose to support.
More information and the list of charities can be found at the Texas State Employee Charitable Campaign website.
 
Posted Oct. 21, 2024
image of scrappy and lucky sledding on snow with details of the seminar listed in the text at rightLearn to prep for winter weather at Nov. 7 online seminar
Join UNT's Emergency Management and Safety Services staff and the National Weather Service to learn tips for staying safe during winter weather.
They will provide a briefing to campus on updates to new winter weather watch/warning terminology, and detail emergency winter weather tips that will help you prepare during winter weather season.
This seminar is presented on Zoom from 10-11 am Nov. 7.
Faculty and staff, please register for the session via Bridge. Students can go to the meeting directly on Zoom and enter the meeting ID: 834 3032 5577. If a passcode is requested, please input: 1111. Everyone must sign in with their UNT EUID and password, as this seminar is exclusively for the UNT community.
This learning session is part of ongoing outreach by the Emergency Management staff. They also conduct severe weather training, co-host the UNT Safety Fair and provide many other business continuity and preparedness training sessions to students, faculty and staff. For more information on training sessions they offer, visit their training page and scroll to the bottom to find the menu under "Emergency Management and Safety Services."
Posted Oct. 16, 2024
Flyer for the HUB Vendor fair that lists all information in the story at right.HUB Vendor Fair set for Nov. 8
UNT Vice President for Finance & Administration Clayton Gibson and the UNT System HUB Program partner every year to host a HUB Vendor Fair. This year's fair is from 10 am to 1 pm Nov. 8 (Friday) at the UNT Union, Room 314.
A Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) is one that is at least 51 percent owned by Black, Hispanic, Asian Pacific or Native Americans; women; or service-disabled veterans (at least 20 percent service disabled). In addition, to qualify for this event, Texas must be the primary place of business and the owner should be a Texas resident for at least one year.
These State of Texas certified HUB Vendors will attend the fair to share information and samples from the goods and services they provide. There will also be door prizes for attendees.
For more information, email HUB@UNTSystem.edu or call 940-369-5580.
Posted Sept. 30, 2024
Asset Management team members sit on steps next to UNT Dallas signSpotlight on One Team in action
Soon after UNT System Chancellor Michael Williams was appointed to his role, UNT's Director of Asset Management, Jimmy Grounds, had a vision to encourage collaboration with his team here at UNT and other asset management teams across the System.
Earlier this year, these teams met at UNT Health Science Center (HSC), then at UNT and most recently at UNT Dallas (pictured).
The goals are to learn from other units, help increase efficiencies, trade tips and best practices, and – most importantly – to reinforce the One Team concept. 
At their UNT Dallas trip, these leaders in asset/property management and inventory control took time to meet, tour the UNT School of Law and were even able to tour The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.
Posted Sept. 26, 2024
Photo of Physical Education Building entrace before renovationSpotlight on campus construction projects

During each academic year, UNT sees a variety of construction projects both on and near campus.

Most of the construction happening around campus is roadwork or utility work from the City of Denton or other partners. In 2024, UNT will also have a big construction project as we build a new Science & Technology Building on the current site of Lot 7.

However, most folks don't know that our teams handle several other smaller projects around campus each year. One example is shown at left, the Physical Education Building. Old carpet and tile that was more difficult to maintain was replaced by brand new flooring. This new flooring also added some brightness to the hallways as it replaced dark flooring and carpet.

Another recent renovation was done to the Kerr Hall lobby area. The front desk area was expanded to Phyiscal Education Building photo of flooring and walls after renovation.provide better service to students and give staff a bit more space. Flooring and furniture were also updated to give students a more community-focused space.

Smaller projects are highlighted on the Facilities Department's social media platforms (Facebook: @UNTFacilitiesDept; Instagram and X: @UNTFacilities). Follow their accounts to learn more about work being done at UNT.

Larger projects are detailed on the Facilities Department's website so that they can continue to update the UNT community about every step of the construction. These updates include progress reports received by the City of Denton and other partners about work being done near the campus. Click here to view the Construction page on Facilities' website.

Keeping students, faculty, staff and visitors aware of these projects is important to our team!

Posted Sept. 16, 2024

black labrador puppy photo on a background of green four-leaf cloversSpotlight on community service K-9 Clover

The UNT Police Department announced in August that they would be getting a community service K-9. This puppy will be on campus to serve the UNT community by helping with community engagement activities.

Not everyone feels comfortable interacting with police, so Police Chief Ramona Washington wanted this dog to help bridge that gap by allowing others to feel more at ease with campus officers. The puppy will also receive obedience training so that she can be a comforting animal if a crime victim or survivor would like to hold her while they speak with police.

To truly help the UNT community feel as if she is their dog, the police department held a naming contest pared down from five names voted on by staff at the department. The top vote-getter, Clover, won out over second-place Jazz by just 25 votes. Clover is a reference to both the color green and UNT's unofficial mascot Lucky, the white squirrel. Jazz, of course, being a reference to UNT's world-class music program. Other names in the list were: Grace, Luna and Maple.

The UNT Police Department will need to get puppy vaccinations for Clover and have her undergo several weeks of obedience training so that she can interact with the community. They expect she will start making her rounds at community engagement activities later this fall semester in October or November.

Posted Sept. 9, 2024

Business continuity receives top state recognition, as staff member graduates from prestigious training

Associate Director of Emergency Management & Planning Corey Olszewski holding his graduation certificateThe University of North Texas has been recognized with a statewide award for exceptional commitment to business continuity planning and execution.

The State Office of Risk Management’s (SORM) Continuity Preparedness Program Award was received by UNT’s Emergency Management and Safety Services (EMSS) program, housed in the Risk Management Services department.

To qualify, recipients must have a dedicated continuity practitioner with advanced certification, a comprehensive and regularly updated continuity plan, and a proven history of conducting exercises and after-action reviews.

“This is a very selective award, with only six recipients this year from across the state. UNT and the University of Houston were the only two universities to receive the award this year,” said Associate Director of Emergency Management & Planning Corey Olszewski, who is pictured at left.

UNT’s program includes business continuity for critical areas – such as police, on-campus housing – that have a significant role in student safety and support. The campus Continuity Liaison Program also requires all major departments or divisions to appoint a continuity manager. Olszewski, who is certified through DRI International, then works with those areas to help train them on continuity planning and provide support.

“An important part of this program is that we also help our partners, so our program provides support and collaboration across the UNT System entities and with other external partners,” said Olszewski, who recently graduated from the National Emergency Management Advance Academy offered by FEMA.

SORM reviews the framework of UNT’s plans and during the last review, the state organization found that the university met all requirements with no changes needed. This framework provides terms and definitions, identifies levels of criticality and response requirements.

Plans are implemented during major events, such as the COVID pandemic, and during impactful events, such as extended power outages due to severe weather.

“We were the first institution in the state to take a framework approach that establishes a base plan from which all others branch out into their own plans. This gives each of our areas guidance, but with the flexibility to address their own needs,” said Olszewski.

Smaller areas may not already have a business continuity plan, but Olszewski is happy to work with any UNT group to help create one. Simply email him at emergency.management@unt.edu.

Receiving this state award reaffirms UNT’s position as a leader in emergency management and business continuity. It validates the university’s proactive approach to safeguarding its students, faculty, staff, and community. UNT will continue to prioritize continuity planning as an integral component of its overall risk management strategy.

Posted Aug. 30, 2024

University of North Texas Renews NWS Storm Ready Designation
Staff members from Emergency Management and Safety Services holding their Storm Ready signThe University of North Texas renewed its Storm Ready designation from the National Weather Service. This prestigious recognition underscores UNT’s unwavering commitment to campus safety and preparedness in the face of severe weather.
 
UNT’s Emergency Management and Safety Services (EMSS) program, housed in the Risk Management Services department, applied for the designation eight years ago and has maintained it ever since.
The Storm Ready designation is awarded to groups that have created and implemented emergency plans, public education methods, and warning systems that inform and protect against severe weather hazards. UNT has consistently met and exceeded these rigorous standards, demonstrating its dedication to the safety of students, faculty, and staff.
 
“A big part of this designation is the public readiness aspect and proving that you promote severe weather preparedness,” said Senior Director of Emergency Management and Planning Scotie Selman. “One example of this is our team’s consistent monitoring of weather conditions. Our staff members rotate on-call assignments to monitor weather for our Denton and Frisco locations 24 hours a day.”
 
EMSS staff members have found themselves in UNT’s Emergency Operations Center at 4 am – or all night – when monitoring weather.
“I’ve been in the office during times when I thought we might lose power at home due to a bad ice storm. I’ve stay here to be sure I’m still able to monitor for the safety of our UNT community,” said Selman.
 
The team’s work includes:
  • Regular weather awareness and safety training for students, faculty, and staff
  • Advanced warning systems and communication protocols
  • Partnerships with local emergency management agencies
  • Emergency response and recovery procedures
As they monitor situations, they use their judgment to share what is needed without oversaturating communications so that the UNT community receives relevant information that is actionable.
 
“We make sure we are communicating to Mean Green Athletics or other partners hosting outdoor events if we think there is a high likelihood of a severe storm. We also share regular posts on social media. We even worked with the Green Brigade Marching Band to ensure they had information about heat-related conditions since they are out there practicing in the Texas sun,” said Selman. “We spend a lot of time communicating because we know how weather can impact our campus and we want our students, faculty, staff and guests to be prepared.”
 
UNT is one of 32 universities/colleges in Texas to receive this designation and one of about 300 universities/colleges nationwide. The designation is open to public and private entities, including tribal nations, government/military sites, communities, counties and municipalities, and commercial sites. 
 
By maintaining Storm Ready status, UNT reinforces its position as a leader in campus safety and emergency preparedness. The university encourages all members of the campus community to stay informed about severe weather threats and to take necessary precautions to eliminate or lessen the impacts of those threats.
 
Posted Aug. 30, 2024
a pair of road closed signs along Avenue B on campusSpotlight on better roads

Most of the roads surrounding UNT's campus are owned and maintained by our partners at the City of Denton. Starting with this academic year, some of these roads are undergoing utility expansion and paving roadwork. This work will not only help ensure our utilities are carrying the load to sustain activity on campus but also that we will have smooth, nice roads surrounding our beautiful campus.

Our own Facilities department acts as the primary partner with the City of Denton, receiving updates and sharing information campus-wide so that students, faculty, staff and visitors have a better understanding of the best routes to navigate campus.

If you need the latest information about roadwork -- or any of the construction impacting campus -- then please visit the Construction page on the UNT Facilities website. They keep the site updated so that our community members have a better understanding of what is going on around campus and can best prepare for their journey to or from UNT.

Posted Aug. 26, 2024

Vice president Clayton Gibson stands with two studentsSpotlight on Welcome Week

The first day of school, even for returning students can be very overwhelming because UNT has a big campus with many supportive services. It's a lot like a small city when you're here at UNT!

During the first week, Vice President Clayton Gibson enjoys spending time at the welcome tents giving out goodies and answering questions for students. One of the questions he heard the most this year was regarding wayfinding so it's important to note that all UNT buildings and almost all parking lots are listed on Android and iPhone maps (along with Google Maps). If you enter in your building name and "UNT" then you should get a direct route to help you find the location.

Most of the departments in the Division of Finance & Administration do not have a direct impact on education but all of the departments oversee efforts to provide supportive services. We recommend our community members familiarize themselves with our social media and websites to help them find information to make their experience at UNT a bit smoother.

Click through the departments listed on this site to find their websites. You can also find Facilities on Facebook at UNTFacilitiesDept, and on X or Instagram at UNTFacilities. UNT Police Department is on Facebook, X and Instagram at UNTPolice. Transportation and Parking is on Facebook and Instagram at UNTTransit. Risk Management Services is on Facebook, X and Instagram at MeanGreenReady.

Posted Aug. 19, 2024

Officer Cioffi walks alongside K9 WatsonSpotlight on UNT Police K-9 Watson

In May 2024, K-9 Keegan retired after six years of service with the UNT Police Department. The department then chose Ofc. Cioffi to be the next K-9 handler for their explosive detection dog. In July 2024, he returned from training with K-9 Watson, shown at left.

The duo can be seen at home games and large events on the UNT campus. Watson is trained as an explosives detection dog using the Vapor Wake system, in that and his looks he is almost identical to K-9 Keegan. He sniffs the air to detect scents and follows the scent of explosives to their source. When you see him on campus or at events, you may see him raise his face as he sniffs the air. He may also seem to be wandering, but that is a sign that he is tracing a scent.

K-9 Watson is almost 2 years old and has been extensively trained in detection. He and Ofc. Cioffi will also be on-call for assistance to other police departments, as needed.

If you see K-9 Watson on campus, he may be friendly but please refrain from petting him unless the officer says it is OK -- because he may be working and we don't want him to get distracted.

Posted Aug. 12, 2024

DCTA bus route sign in a Denton neighborhoodSpotlight on public partnerships

Many students who attend UNT live within the Denton city limits. To make it easier for them to navigate campus, UNT has a partnership with Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA).

DCTA is the service provider of buses that run routes internal to UNT's campus and externally within the city to allow commuters to leave their cars at home and still get to class on time.

The fall 2024 bus route and service schedule was recently posted on DCTA's website. Find it by clicking here.

As a supplement to DCTA's routes, UNT's Transportation Services department also offers a Night Flight program. This allows students to get a safe ride between two points on campus by calling for a Night Flight shuttle. Find out more about the Night Flight shuttle (formerly E-Ride) and other transit options on campus by clicking here.

Posted August 5, 2024

dirty tub with clothing and other memorabilia by a brick wallSpotlight on the 'Wild Women'

In 1982, the self-proclaimed "Wild Women" were a group of friends who lived in Clark Hall while attending UNT. They gathered for a reunion during homecoming in 1992 and buried some sentimental items in a storage bin “time capsule” near Clark Hall.

On July 10, 2024, a UNT Facilities work crew was repairing a sanitary waste pipe when they discovered the bin. This led to a social media post and, ultimately, the Wild Women were identified! You can read about our discovery and the social media responses of the Wild Women in news media stories linked on this page.

Kudos to our staff for identifying the sentimental value of their discovery and taking steps to preserve it as best they could. Please note that UNT does not recommend burying your own time capsules as digging on the grounds may disrupt utility lines.

Posted July 29, 2024

 
Risk Management staff listening to a speakerSpotlight on team strengths

The University of North Texas takes pride in living Our Values. These values have meaning and can be seen in our every day activities.

For example, Risk Management Services, shown at left, explored the "Be Curious" value as they conducted an exercise to learn about the strengths of each team member. Developing a better understanding of each other also supports the "Better Together" value as the team learned how each member could use their strengths to support each other, the department, and the mission of UNT.

Taking time to learn and grow is important in our roles here at UNT. It supports our own professional development while keeping us connected back to our community.

Posted July 22, 2024

Member of the controller's team helping a UNT staff memberSpotlight on the UNT Controller's office

The staff in the UNT Controller's office handle many of the daily accounting duties that keep our university fiscally responsible and on track to achieve our budgeting goals.

They also make time to help others. At left, a member of the UNT Controller's office explains financial accounting processes during an open house help session. The University Budget team hosts these monthly sessions in collaboration with the controller's team so that staff at UNT can get their questions answered directly from our experts.

The UNT Controller's office includes four areas of concentration: accounting & financial reporting; student accounting; cash; and state. These teams offer support for all of our campus needs.

Posted July 15, 2024