The University of Minnesota (UMN) and Minnesota State Patrol will partner to increase campus safety as students return to campus this fall.

The Minnesota State Patrol will support the University of Minnesota Police Department by patrolling areas surrounding the campus to keep students safe as they return to class this week. UMN is also hiring additional community safety officers; expanding a program that provides safe rides home to students; and adding additional street lighting and cameras.

"We’re excited to welcome [UMN] students and staff back to campus and look forward to a safe school year. Troopers will be visible in their squad cars this week to enhance the work being done by the [UMN] campus police and Minneapolis Police Department during a busy time on campus," said Colonel Matt Langer, Chief of the Minnesota State Patrol.

"As students head back to campus, we want them focused on having fun and getting the best possible education, not concern for their personal safety," said Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. "By creating partnerships with the university and the State Patrol, we can better keep our students, parents and faculty safe."