Special Situations Team
In an effort to enhance already existing processes, and as a means to align Texas A&M University with emerging national standards relative to dealing with troubled and/or at risk faculty, staff, and students, an Special Situations Team has been assembled.
The charge of the Special Situations Team is to assess circumstances, enhance communication, and initiate appropriate responses to specific behavioral problems that may involve threats to the safety and security of the University community.
The Special Situations Team meets on a regular basis and can be convened by any member of the team at any time to respond to concerning situations. The following are members of the Special Situations Team:
- Mr. Andrew Barna, Director of Employee Relations, Human Resources and Organizational Effectiveness
- Mr. Jacob Becker, Office of General Counsel
- Dr. James Deegear, Counseling & Psychological Services
- Dr. Martha Dannenbaum, Director, Student Health Services
- Mr. Bobby Richardson, Police Lieutenant, University Police Department
- Dr. Heather C. Lench, Sr. Associate, Vice President for Faculty Affairs
- Mr. Kyle McCracken, Assistant Director, Residence Life
- Dr. Kristie Orr, Director, Disability Resources
- Ms. Chareny Rydl, Executive Director, Residence Life
- Ms. Angela Winkler, Assistant Director, Student Life
- Dr. Douglas Bell, Director, Student Conduct Office
- Dr. Stefanie Baker, Director Student Life
- Dr. Justin Jeffery, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs
(Many of these members have one or more back-up members that also serve on the team.)
The Special Situations Team’s authority is derived from the already existing authority of the individuals who comprise it; the team will not be endowed with any additional authority; and the team will not create new policies or rules, rather they will work within existing rules and policies and propose any new rules or policies through existing processes.
Individuals may use the TellSomebody online report form to submit reports to the Special Situations Team. The submitter of the report has the option to fill in contact information or submit the report anonymously. Reports submitted anonymously or with limited information may limit the Team’s ability to follow up on an incident. Once a report is submitted online, a copy is emailed to the entire team for appropriate review and necessary action. NOTE: Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed for reports submitted through this site. State law determines confidentiality.
For more information about the Special Situations Team, please contact Dr. Justin Jeffery, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, at 979-845-4728 or by email at jjeffery@tamu.edu.
