A new task force has been formed at the University of Utah to examine issues surrounding violence, particularly violence inflicted on students.

"We're not here to review the policy of whether guns belong on campus, that's already been done; we're working with the current law to protect students best," said U. professor Wayne McCormack.

The U. currently allows concealed weapons permit holders to carry guns on campus, a highly debated topic. This year, lawmakers passed a provision allowing students living in dormitories to request a non-gun-carrying roommate. The task force will address policies on this provision as well as other issues, such as identification of a secure hearing room or communication hub and emergency planning in general.

"We are fortunate to have had no fatal incidents on our campus, but there have been threats and minor physical assaults," McCormack said. Student safety in all regards, he said, is of utmost importance to the task force.

Recent events at various college campuses across the country, specifically the shootings at Virginia Tech and Fresno State University, prompted U. President Michael K. Young to call on the group to provide guidance to students, faculty and staff should they become aware of the presence of weapons in their midst.

"We will be considering ways to forestall emergencies, to enhance our response capabilities and to communicate with the campus," McCormack said. "All subjects related to security are on the table for consideration, but it is important to realize that this campus already has a very effective security and response system in place."

The task force is charged with identifying warning signals and possible hostile behavior from students. In a series of closed meetings, it will discuss ways to provide appropriate help to individuals who exhibit such behavior while protecting the campus environment.

"Weapons aren't the only way violence can be inflicted," McCormack said.

In the case of an incident, the group hopes to ensure that law enforcement and security operations provide rapid, appropriate response, another issue it will discuss.

Officials at other college and university campuses in Utah have also said they would be considering revisions to current safety policies in light of recent tragic events.

Utah State University's Emergency Response Preparation Committee has been identifying various vulnerabilities at the Logan campus and revamping security policies to address those. USU spokesman John DeVilbiss said that following its first meeting, the group is currently reviewing various "instant" communication tools available.

Faculty and staff members from multiple disciplines, as well as the student body president, have been asked to serve on the U.'s task force. The objective is to identify areas of campus that are of most concern. An opportunity for involvement of the community and other students will be presented in the future, McCormack said.

"It's a campus-wide effort and gives us an opportunity to listen to all the concerns from the different corners of campus," he said.

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com