Charles Mascenik, a 27-year police veteran from New Jersey, has been named
director of Campus Safety and Security for The University of Tampa.
Mascenik has been acting director since former director Jenna Venero resigned
for personal reasons in June. He has been a security officer on the UT campus
since 1994 and is familiar with the issues and procedures on the campus.
"I’m pleased to see the committee (unanimously) acknowledge Charlie's hard
work, dedication, and first-hand knowledge of UT's safety and security operation
by promoting him to the number one position," said Rod Plowman, chair of the
Safety & Security's Selection Committee.
"Charlie's prior law enforcement experience and long-time UT service (10
years), including several years as the assistant director, have provided him
with an excellent background."
Before arriving at UT in 1994, Mascenik was a police officer in Perth Amboy,
N.J. for nearly 27 years, retiring as an administrative captain in 1992.
While ascending in rank at UT, Mascenik gained a thorough understanding of
the campus community and security needs. He said that the primary challenge will
be for the campus security department to grow with the student population.
“We can’t stay stagnant if the number of students is increasing,” said
Mascenik. “We’re going to need educated and experienced officers.”
Since he began in 1994, the number of campus security officers has increased
from 8 to 20. Like Mascenik, many officers have prior experience as civilian
police. Mascenik said the officers are a close-knit group dedicated not only to
protection, but service in general.
For more information, contact the Office
of Public Information at
publicinfo@ut.edu.