What does the Student Safety Advocate do?

In an effort to center both student voice and experience, the Student Safety Advocate role was established in 2023 by the Division of Student Affairs to provide a mechanism for students to inform campus leadership about safety topics and provide recommendations. To achieve this goal, the Advocate builds relationships by proactively meeting with students throughout the year to better understand safety needs and help identify any emerging concerns. They also educate student leaders and student groups about campus safety efforts and advocate on behalf of students to campus leadership and relevant campus units. The Advocate will also initiate and lead projects to support the evolving safety needs of students. 

What does “safety” encompass?

Safety is a broad term, and its meaning can change over time. For example, the introduction of the internet and social media has brought about safety concerns that didn’t always exist. Because of this fluidity, it is important for the Advocate role to be responsive to the issues students are experiencing in real time.

Some areas of safety that students have identified include psychological safety, discrimination and harassment, transportation safety and lighting. As a comprehensive resource for students, the Advocate has developed a Student Safety Directory, highlighting all the resources and efforts happening around campus.

Who is the Student Safety Advocate?

Tim Jefferies serves as the university's Student Safety Advocate. With multiple years of experience supporting the complex needs of students, Tim has contributed to a range of initiatives improving the experience of safety for all students. Tim holds a master’s degree in Educational Policy & Leadership from Marquette University, and has additional training in restorative practices and mediation, with an expertise in serving underrepresented student communities. With a passion for amplifying student voice and making more transparent what safety means at UC Davis, Tim is a fierce advocate in partnership with students.

Tim welcomes student feedback and is available to meet—please don’t hesitate to reach out to him via email with any safety concerns, questions or recommendations.