Behavior Evaluation Threat Assessment Group (BETA)
Recent distressing events on several college campuses nationwide have bought increased emphasis on safety and security to almost all college campuses. Many of the issues brought forward after these events occurred focus on the campuses ability to centralize information about those who exhibit disruptive, destructive or disturbing behaviors. These behaviors- exhibited in the classroom, at university events, through the normal course of business or even off-campus- may be the result of mental or physical illness, depression, alcohol or drug abuse, or other causes.
The Behavior Evaluation and Threat Assessment group (BETA) is a team of University of Baltimore staff that can be helpful to students, faculty and administrators who are dealing with someone for whom they have a concern. BETA serves as a central source to identify and monitor these individuals, while offering information and resources to the concerned individual to help address the problem. When appropriate, referrals can be made to campus support resources and, if necessary, to off-campus agencies.
BETA is not a group that prescribes treatment or discipline. The group is designed to provide information and referrals to those dealing with difficult or disruptive situations and to reach out to the individual involved when appropriate. It does not adjudicate, discipline or impose sanctions against any member of the campus community, nor does it provide or mandate treatment.
BETA is coordinated by the Dean of Students and consists of representatives from the Counseling Center, UB Police and Human Resources. It also includes liaisons from each of the three schools- Law, Liberal Arts and Business.
MEETINGSThe Behavior Evaluation and Threat Assessment group meets monthly throughout the regular academic year. Additional meetings are called, as necessary.
The main purpose of these meetings is to discuss situations brought to members of the group by campus staff, faculty and students seeking guidance regarding concerns. These discussions are intended to inform group members about the type of issues occurring on campus, emerging trends, service opportunities and the availability of appropriate resources. Members may also review and discuss other topics relative to their work, such as campus policies, state and federal regulations and mandates, ethical issues and confidentiality concerns.
ASSISTANCE & CONSULTATION
Many University members, during the course of their work on campus, find themselves confronted with a situation in which they feel uncertain or in some way threatened. If you feel unsure of how to deal with an individual's behavior, whether in a formal situation such as class or through informal interactions, BETA may be able to assist you. BETA members are also available to speak to campus groups and offer guidance on preventive steps that individuals and offices can take when dealing with these types of concerns.
To get information on how to deal with such a situation, contact one of the core members of the Behavior Evaluation and Threat Assessment group. You may choose to work directly with one individual or speak with the entire group. In all situations, confidentiality is a priority and will be respected.
EMERGENCIES
In the event of an emergency or crisis situation, contact the University of Baltimore Police Department at extension 5520 or Baltimore City Police by dialing 911.
BETA GROUP MEMBERS
Kathleen Anderson
Dean of Students
Academic Center, 112
410.837.5429
kanderson@ubalt.edu
Myra Waters, Ph.D.
Director, Counseling Services
Academic Center 111
410.837.5158
mwaters@ubalt.edu
Rebecca Spence
Assoc. Director, Human Resources
Trahan Bldg., 3rd floor
410.837.5410
rspence@ubalt.edu
Sam Tress
Chief, University of Baltimore Police Department
Academic Center, 128
410.837.5523
ubpolicedepartment@ubalt.edu
stress@ubalt.edu
Division of Student Affairs
Academic Center, 112
410.837.4755
studentaffairs@ubalt.edu