SCCC Security Implements New Security Tactics

By Ximena Malpica

Journalism I Student

Visitor Parking Lot

With a fresh start and substantial changes for this 2025 fall semester in Sussex County Community College in Newton, the security department implemented some major and significant improvements in SCCC Campus Safety and Security.

 Throughout this semester, SCCC welcomed fresh faces into its security department, increasing the number of security officers and welcoming a new dispatcher position. 

For security reasons, some details could not be discussed further. John Dixon, director of Public Safety Training Academy and the director of Campus Safety and Security, shared some of the significant improvements that have been made, including the coverage of MTech and the Guard Shack.

Not only is the SCCC Security Department in charge of keeping its campus safe, but it also upgraded its uniforms, providing more visibility and presence when found on campus. 

Working as a team is key in keeping SCCC’s campus safe and working effectively. Adding a new position to their team has also been beneficial.

 Dixon said, “Organizationally, we added a deputy director position to oversee daily operations, strengthening leadership and continuity.  Iin addition, the college has established an Emergency Management Team to lead, manage, and respond to any emergency situation that may arise.”

Looking forward, the security department has been in a continuous move with its operational improvement, upgrades in its communications systems, and enhancements in its personnel training.

Dixon provided what it is like working at SCCC and what inspired him to work at the college.

“Dynamic! Our college community is truly vibrant,” he said. “The Executive Leadership Team remains deeply focused on what is best for our students, faculty, and staff across all aspects of college life.

 “Numerous new programs and initiatives have been launched both on the main campus and at the PSTA and MTech facilities, along with expanded community partnerships that continue to strengthen our connection and service to the region,” he added.

He started at SCCC in February of 2023 and has climbed the ladder into his current position, as director of Public Safety Training Academy and the director of Campus Safety and Security.

Both roles share many things in common; two of them would be preparedness and service. He mentioned that he initially joined the college as the director of the PSTA.

“I initially joined the college as the director of the PSTA, and through the successful growth and development of the academy, a strong working relationship was established across departments,” he said.

Getting to where he is and implementing positive changes can serve as an example for others.

“There are always challenges; how we respond to and solve them is what sets true leaders apart,” he said. “Challenges are an inevitable part of the human condition, but our strength lies in our ability to improvise, adapt, and overcome as they arise. This mindset drives our continued growth and resilience as a team and as a college community.”

Students attending SCCC may have noticed changes with the student drop-off and pick-up area, which is now located at Building A.

“This initiative was implemented to enhance and promote traffic safety on campus,” he explained. “With several ongoing capital construction projects, the volume of construction vehicle traffic has increased. These measures are designed to minimize congestion and maintain smooth, safe traffic flow for everyone on campus.”

Current student Hail Orecchio said, “Before I knew about why the student drop-off and pickup location changed, I believed that SCCC had reason to do this change.  I personally don’t use the pickup and drop-off but, it makes sense why they changed it.” 

To contact Dixon, his office is in D Building within the Human Resources suite;  his email and contact number are listed on the college website.

 “I make it a point to be visible and approachable as I walk throughout campus, and I welcome anyone to reach out with questions, concerns or suggestions,” he concludes.