Providence, RI -- Student leaders and administrators from Providence College and Providence police officers from the nearby District Seven substation met one another and discussed neighborhood relations during a "meet and greet" session held recently at the substation on Camden Avenue.

The get-together was coordinated by the city's Police Department and the College's Office of the Vice President for Student Services and Office of the Vice President for College Relations and Planning. Intended as an opportunity to enhance the relationship between the College and local police and to address issues involving the Elmhurst neighborhood, the meet and greet was attended by approximately 30 members of the College community and police officers.

Students, administrators, and police officers greeted one other and conversed casually while munching on pizza during the hour-long social. The participants included approximately a dozen members of Student Congress, led by its president, Matthew M. Weber  '06. College President Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. and College Executive Vice President and Treasurer Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. headed up the list of PC administrators on hand.

Also taking part were Rev. J. Stuart McPhail, O.P., vice president for student services; Edward J. Caron, vice president for college relations and planning; and Richard F. Kless, director of off-campus living.

Lt. Mike Correia, commanding officer of District Seven, and Father Shanley briefly addressed the gathering. Correia extended thanks to Father Shanley and other administrative leaders for assisting and attending the meet and greet. He pledged the Police Department's continued willingness to work with the College in fostering strong neighborhood relations.

Father Shanley pointed out the collaborative effort taking place between the College and the police in the interest of the residents of Elmhurst, which he called "a great neighborhood." Pointing out that his twin brother is a police officer, Father Shanley told the officers that he has a special respect for their role and responsibilities. He also praised the turnout of student leaders.

"I thank you all for what you do," he said.

The facilities housing the District Seven substation, which is located adjacent to the intersection of Eaton Street and Douglas Avenue, are owned by Providence College. They were specifically renovated to accommodate the police substation. According to Correia, because of the amenities it provides, the substation is the only one in the city that accommodates a full police post. The Elmhurst police post is one of nine in the city.

--30--