UMO Named Safest College Campus in North Carolina for Fifth Year in a Row
October 2, 2025
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE, NC — The University of Mount Olive (UMO) has once again earned the distinction of being the Safest College Campus in North Carolina, according to Niche’s 2025 Safest College Campuses rankings. This year’s recognition marks the fifth consecutive year that UMO has held the top spot in the state. In addition, UMO ranks among the top 1% of the safest campuses in America, reflecting the University’s longstanding commitment to student safety and well-being.
Senior Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Dan Sullivan attributed the ongoing recognition to the University’s close-knit and proactive community. “Safety is not just a policy at Mount Olive, it’s a culture,” Sullivan said. “Our students, faculty, and staff look out for one another, and that makes all the difference. This honor reflects the shared responsibility and care that defines our campus.”
According to Niche, the rankings are determined using key statistics and student reviews, incorporating U.S. Department of Education data. The safety ranking is an important factor for many prospective students and their families when selecting a college or university.
“The safety of a campus should be one of the most important qualities of a college search,” Sullivan noted. “All higher education institutions are required to complete and publish annual CLERY safety and fire stats. We have a long history of having minimal safety issues on campus.”
UMO’s commitment to safety extends beyond compliance. Since 2016, the University has partnered with a third-party vendor to enhance campus security services. “Our officers know the students and take time to develop relationships with them. They are always accessible and available,” Sullivan said.
As part of its ongoing testing and reevaluation of safety plans, UMO recently installed a new campus siren system. Activated this fall, the system provides faster emergency notifications and enhances response capabilities, adding yet another layer of protection to the University’s comprehensive safety protocols.
In addition to their regular responsibilities, the Campus Safety team collaborates with faculty, staff, and students to implement safety programming. Resident Assistants (RAs) also play an important role by hosting in-hall programs focusing on safety awareness and preparedness.
“One of the most positive aspects of our campus is how our entire community takes extra care in looking after one another,” Sullivan added. “Our community is vigilant in reporting issues and taking extra precautions to keep us all safe. I appreciate the efforts our Campus Safety staff have taken to serve our campus and keep us safe.”
This latest recognition highlights UMO’s dedication to fostering an environment where students can learn, live, and thrive with peace of mind.
For more information about UMO’s rankings, visit Niche’s University of Mount Olive profile.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
