Statement from UAH President Darren Dawson

Here at UAH, our core principles include acting with compassion and respecting all persons by embracing cultural humility, diversity and person-centered care.

The words and actions by UAH police during a traffic stop on October 3, 2020, do not represent who we are as an institution. I have spoken with the family of the young driver to offer my sincere apologies and address the family’s thoughts, ideas and concerns.

We are continuously looking for ways to improve our service to the UAH and Huntsville communities. We will use this as a learning and training opportunity. Our action plan includes:

Increase Accountability and Transparency

• We are reviewing UAHPD policies and procedures to ensure they follow best practices, provide channels to report concerns and always ensure transparency.

Community Centered Approach

• We will be proactive and increase positive interactions with the campus and UAH community as well as community partnerships.

Training

• UAHPD will undergo additional training.

Each of you is vitally important to us as an individual. We recognize our responsibility as a university to ensure that all members of our community are treated fairly, equitably, and with understanding. We will work diligently to embody our core values of integrity and respect, diligence and excellence, inclusiveness and diversity.

Respectfully,

Darren Dawson
President