August 13, 2014 - Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero and Police Chief David Rausch awarded the department's first Unit Citation to the Safety Education Unit for their dedication and commitment to the "Take a Stand Against Bullying" campaign.

Chief Rausch said the Safety Education Unit (SEU) has worked tirelessly for more than a year to develop an anti-bullying campaign and to educate the public, educators, and students to the dangers of bullying. The education campaign began in July 2013 when a summit on bullying was held for law enforcement and educators from across the state. Since the summit, other school districts are now creating anti-bullying campaigns for their communities.

Students from Hardin Valley Academy's leadership class developed 9 PSAs that were produced by the Knoxville Police Department's Technical Services Unit. The PSAs were debuted during a town hall meeting on bullying that was carried live and live-streamed on WBIR-TV. More than 20,000 people watched the live televised discussion.

Chief Rausch said, "The Safety Education Unit's hard work and dedication has greatly impacted students, teachers, law enforcement, and families in the Knoxville community. They continue their goal of heightening the awareness of people who are taking a stand against bullying and saving students' lives in our schools.

KPD Safety Education Members:

Captain Bob Wooldridge
Sgt. Kelly Tanner
Officers Anita Watson
Officer Lori Banks
Officer Hakan Dururvurur
Officer Ricky Gallaher
Training Specialist Aubrey Maples
Administrative Technician Brenda Hicks

This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Criminal Justice Programs and is supported by Award #19765 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, USDOJ.