National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 11-17) honors those who typically are the first point of contact when someone reaches out for help. Each year, the second week of April is set aside to thank them for the sacrifices they make to create a better and safer world for the public.
Texas Woman’s has seven telecommunications staff members (also known as dispatchers) who work 24/7 to serve as the vital communications link between the campus community needing help and emergency services response.
TWU telecommunications staff members are:
- Tana Maryovich (supervisor)
- Gilmara Adams
- LaKiena Baker
- Morgan Cartwright
- Branson Gray
- Diane Lehotsky
- Megan VanDerKooi
The State of Texas recognizes public safety telecommunicators as “first responders.” This requires a candidate to be able to handle a high-stress environment calmly and professionally while receiving and evaluating incoming emergency and administrative requests for emergency services such as law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS).
“They’re definitely the unseen, ‘behind the scenes’ glue for safety and security on campus,” said Dianna Smith, manager of TWU public safety operations.