Security Updates with Brian Dolansky

Photo by Greta Stuckey ‘23

Things have been mostly tranquil as of late on the Marist Campus, according to Associate Director of Safety and Security Brian Dolansky. 

Dolansky commented on the recent repose in regards to criminal mischief. “We haven’t had a lot of activity in terms of incidents of crime,” Dolansky said.

The only incidents of note that Dolansky recalled occurred during the weekend of February 10-12. “We had a couple of incidents with students who had a little too much to drink and ended up damaging some property,” Dolansky elaborated.

Dolansky then addressed an incident that has been on the minds of many in the Marist student body – the recent coyote attack on a student. According to Dolansky, it can be expected for coyotes and other animals to wander onto campus. 

“Coyotes are wild animals that live in the area, so it’s not unusual for them to be on campus,” Dolansky said. As to why this coyote might have moved to attack the student, Dolansky explained that “there’s always the potential that it got aggressive due to being sick, with rabies or something similar. It’s also mating season, and that can also be a reason they might get a little bit aggressive.”

Dolansky clarified that students need not go about their days in constant fright. “Just keep your eyes open,” Dolansky advised. “It’s normal for animals to be on campus, because we’re surrounded by their natural habitat.”

To help prevent further wildlife encounters, Dolansky urges students to do their part by keeping their spaces and the campus clean: properly disposing of trash, not leaving food out and about, etc. Additionally, he warns to not try and pet or feed the animals encountered on campus. 

“You don’t have to walk around afraid by any stretch,” Dolansky said. “Just be aware, and let us know if you see anything.”