Sacred Heart University is welcoming back a familiar face, as Brian Rojee ’04 returns as the new director of Public Safety.
The leadership transition involves former public safety leader Gary MacNamara taking a position focused entirely on community and government relations, according to the university. Kim Swartz, director of communications, said the change reflects a strategic realignment to meet the university’s evolving needs.
“His transition opens the door for dedicated leadership in public safety under Rojee, a Sacred Heart alumnus with more than two decades of law enforcement experience and strong ties to the university,” said Swartz.
Rojee’s return to Sacred Heart marks a full-circle moment in his career. After graduating in 2004, he spent 21 years with the Milford Police Department, where he served as deputy chief of police and worked as a midnight shift supervisor. He also worked as a lead instructor for Synergy 911, providing active shooter preparedness training for schools, churches, hospitals and corporate organizations.
His experience in both law enforcement and emergency preparedness is expected to shape his approach as director. With public safety concerns growing on college campuses, his background in training and coordination may help strengthen existing protocols and introduce new strategies focused on prevention and response.
“With a new director already familiar with Sacred Heart and its community, the transition is expected to be steady and collaborative, while reinforcing a continued focus on preparedness, communication and maintaining a safe, welcoming campus environment,” said Swartz.
As director, Rojee is expected to continue emphasizing communication and coordination across campus. Public safety departments at universities rely on strong partnerships with local law enforcement and clear communication with students and staff, especially when it comes to emergency preparedness and response.
Students have expressed confidence in the university’s current safety measures, particularly during large campus events.
As for sophomore Matthew Caliri, who attended the recent Spring Concert, held in the Martire Family Arena, the safety presence stood out. Transportation was efficient, with multiple large shuttles running, according to Caliri.
“You couldn’t have missed one if you tried,” said Caliri.
He said security at the event was highly visible, with guards positioned throughout the venue and even in elevated areas, along with police officers present. The level of preparation contributed to an overall sense of safety for Caliri.
As for his day-to-day interactions with public safety, they are limited, but generally positive. Caliri said officers are helpful with situations like unlocking dorm rooms and responding to minor issues.
On the other hand, parking remains a concern for many students.
“Parking in general is a safety protocol I’d love to see change, as I find many people with parking passes can’t find spots in their assigned lot, so it defeats the purpose of spending $500 to bring your car to campus as underclassmen,” said Caliri.
Moreover, snow removal in parking lots is another issue he would like to see improved. Caliri said cars left in lots during snowstorms are not always addressed efficiently, which can make conditions more difficult and potentially unsafe for students navigating campus.
For sophomore Matthew Gavagan, transportation to the Spring Concert was smooth due to the number of shuttles, and the visible security presence made him feel confident in the safety of the event.
While Gavagan said he does not see a need for major changes, he hopes the department continues maintaining vigilance and prioritizing student safety moving forward.
“Public Safety always has a presence on campus whether we realize it or not, and they go to great lengths to make SHU a safe place. I feel like we don’t always realize it, but their effort has a huge impact on our experience here,” said Gavagan.
