Baruch’s public safety officers are an integral part of Baruch’s reopening. They’ve processed hundreds and hundreds of ID photos. They’ve patiently explained and enforced vaccine verification and COVID test rules to everyone entering the buildings. And they’ve worked tirelessly since the pandemic hit to keep the campus secure. 

Public Safety Director Robert B. Curry took a few minutes out of his busy day to talk about his pride in his team’s work and his own background. He also offered a few tips to help keep all of us safe as we resume our on-campus routines. 

Public Safety Director Robert Curry seated at a desk in his office at a computer
Baruch Public Safety Director Robert Curry seated at a desk in his office at a computer

Chief Curry joined Baruch as director of public safety in January 2020, right before the pandemic hit. Over the next 18 months, he and his team of 80 officers worked onsite, 24 hours a day, initially helping faculty, staff, and students as campus closed down, then keeping facilities secure through the shutdown, and now ensuring a smooth return as in-person classes resume. 

“It takes a special type of person and commitment to navigate and work in stressful situations,” he said. “I’m very proud to have this team.” 

With so many workplaces around the country reporting staffing upheavals, he’s also rightfully proud of a 95 percent retention rate in his department. 

Seeing students back in the buildings and enjoying the new plaza has been wonderful. “I’m thrilled with the interactions we’re having,” he said. And it’s been touching to see so many parents accompanying students to campus as they take that first step on their Baruch journey. “They’ve entrusted their sons and daughters to us,” he said.

While Chief Curry has only been at Baruch for 19 months, he has nearly 30 years of service in public safety at CUNY, first at Hostos Community College from 1992 to 2012, then for seven years at City College, where he was deputy chief. He’s also a three-time CUNY alumnus, with a master’s degree in urban affairs from Queens College, a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Lehman College, and an associate’s degree in public administration from Hostos.

To keep all of us safe as we get back to normal, Chief Curry was kind enough to offer these tips: 

  1. Please get vaccinated as it helps us all stay safe
  2. Please remember to wear a mask in the appropriate locations and venues
  3. The plaza is open and  the weather is warm – let’s take full advantage of that!
  4. If you see something, say something to public safety. To report anything unusual or if you need assistance kindly call (646) 660-6000 for the public safety main office
  5. Carry your ID at all times as it allows access to all lobby turnstiles.

Published by Beth Harpaz