William “Mac” Babb III is chief of the Virginia Tech Police Department and Director of Security.
In the aftermath of the recent developments in Minneapolis and elsewhere that have shined a spotlight on police officers across the nation, William “Mac” Babb III, chief of the Virginia Tech Police Department and the Director of Security for the campus, wrote the following letter to the Tech student community.
Dear Hokie Nation,
In light of the disturbing events that continue to unfold nationally, the Virginia Tech Police Department is here to reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the safety and quality of life for all members of our dynamic university community.
The department remains dedicated to fair, equitable, and compassionate policing with a focus on community outreach. We firmly reject all forms of discrimination.
Our mission of advancing safety and security is anchored by the Virginia Tech Principles of Community. These fundamental values — mutual respect, civility, and service — not only welcome members of the Police Department and visitors on a sign at the entrance of the Public Safety Building; they underscore all of our daily interactions with the campus community.
The Virginia Tech Police Department is committed to participating in ongoing discussions with members of our community. As a department, we will also continue to engage our employees in and explore additional education and training opportunities around recognizing implicit bias, effective communications, and de-escalation.
It only is through strong partnership with our community — students, faculty, staff, local residents, and law enforcement across Blacksburg and Montgomery County — that we will be able to accomplish our mission. Relationship building, discussion, and self-evaluation remain at the heart of our efforts as we strive toward self-improvement and forging a stronger understanding with our campus community.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Police Department at 540-231-6411 with any concerns. We are here to help.
Ut Prosim,
Mac Babb
Chief of Police
Virginia Tech Police Department
