When Chief Dave Waters first joined the safety team, he had a clear vision: to reshape the department into a trusted, community-driven, and modern force that could serve every corner of the campus with consistency, compassion, and care. Starting at Santa Ana College to now being the Chief of District Safety and Security, his efforts have not only transformed the department's structure and morale but also earned the team formal recognition from a U.S. Congressman and they're not slowing down anytime soon. In fact, they're rolling forward.
At a recent “Donuts with the Chief" event, Chief Waters and his team were honored by Congressman Lou Correa, and his staff for their commitment to keeping the campuses safe. This marked the first time the safety department had received such distinguished public recognition. The award symbolized more than just a job well done, it reflected cultural change, intentional team building, and a shared philosophy that safety is about service.
“When I first came to the department," Chief Waters recalled, “I wanted to create a 'department of YES.'" A department of 'YES' meant shifting the perception of safety officers from enforcers to approachable partners. Faculty and staff who may have felt hesitant to ask for help now feel welcomed and supported. From major campus events to last-minute requests, Waters and his team are known for their flexibility, preparedness, and above all, their presence.
That community-focused mindset has been woven into every aspect of district safety operations. Officers rotate campuses every six months to learn the unique environments and build familiarity with students, staff, and administrators. The team trains regularly in emergency protocols and de-escalation for every large campus event.
“We want people to flip a switch and expect the lights to come on," said Santiago Canyon College Lieutenant Frank Prado. “That's what safety is. Making sure everything runs in the background, so our campuses stay safe and welcoming."
That smooth operation wouldn't be possible without a strong foundation of teamwork and support. Chief Waters credited the current management team with fostering a united vision. Officers now benefit from schedule rotations, monthly team meetings, meaningful training opportunities, including virtual reality simulations, and a culture that values work-life balance.
“Morale is high because people feel heard," Waters said. “They feel respected, and they know they're being equipped to succeed."
The department's next big move? Electric patrol scooters.
While campus officers already patrol on foot, by bike, and in carts, Chief Waters saw an opportunity to add a tool that would not only improve response time and mobility but also build relationships. The new four-wheel electric scooters are sleek, powerful, and student friendly.
“These scooters check a lot of boxes," Waters explained. “They're narrow enough to get into buildings, quick enough to carry first aid supplies across campus, and they're a conversation starter. Students come up, ask about them, and that gives our officers a chance to connect without any enforcement involved."
The scooters have already been showcased at the district office, receiving enthusiastic buzz and reactions from staff and faculty. The department has developed a thorough training protocol, including cone drills, speed modulation, and emergency stopping. Now that officers are certified, the scooters will begin appearing regularly around campus and were on scene at this year's commencement.
For Chief Waters, every decision from team rotations to these new scooters is about building a department that leaves a lasting, positive impact. “We don't want to take our experience with us when we go. We want to pass it on."
That mindset has elevated the district safety department to a model of proactive, inclusive, and community-centered campus security. As one faculty member recently told Waters, “Something's different. It just feels better."
And it is. With a trusted leader at the helm, a team committed to growth, and a few new wheels in motion, the future of campus safety is looking brighter than ever.
