SAN DIEGO, CA – [02/05/2025] – The U.S. CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) Association Conference at San Diego State University has awarded SafeHorns the Project of the Year Award for its West Campus Lighting Initiative, recognizing the organization’s efforts to improve lighting standards and enhance safety in the West Campus community near UT Austin.

The award, which reads, “In recognition of your commitment to creating safe, healthy, and sustainable communities,” was presented by Art Hushen, Executive Director of U.S. CPTED Association and accepted on behalf of SafeHorns by President Joell McNew.

“When we started this journey in 2016, we were driven by a simple yet powerful belief that everyone deserves to feel safe in their campus community,” said McNew. “This project wasn’t just about replacing light bulbs—it was about collaboration. By working with students, residents, local businesses, and the City of Austin, we developed a comprehensive lighting plan that directly addressed the needs of those living in West Campus.”

The award underscores the impact of SafeHorns’ advocacy in fostering a safer environment for students and the broader community.

In addition to accepting the award, McNew was also a featured speaker at the conference, delivering a presentation titled “Lighting the Way to Change.” Expanding on her 2023 presentation about the lighting initiative’s impact, McNew this year emphasized SafeHorns Place as a vital component in the organization’s broader safety efforts through CPTED principles, community engagement, and education. SafeHorns Place, located in the basement of the Congregational Church of Austin off Guadalupe, serves as a community hub where students can access safety resources, participate in self-defense workshops, and engage in initiatives that foster safety and community engagement.

A major focus moving forward is advocating for the City of Austin to incorporate CPTED into the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) as part of the upcoming revisions to expand development in West Campus. “Prioritizing safety, security, and oversight of off-campus student housing is critical,” McNew emphasized. “Integrating CPTED into UNO is essential as West Campus development expands.”

SafeHorns remains committed to empowering students, parents, and the UT community with resources and advocacy for safety on and around campus. With this dynamic team at the helm, the organization looks forward to continuing its mission of improving student safety and quality of life in West Campus and beyond.

For more information about SafeHorns and our initiatives, please visit safehorns.org or contact
us at mediarelations@safehorns.org.

Media Contact:
Joell McNew
President
mediarelations@safehorns.org