Public Safety Deployed Largest Security Presence at Yale-Harvard Game

Yale Public Safety deployed an unprecedented security presence at the recent Yale-Harvard game (The Game).

Several factors contributed to the proactive decision to increase security.

George Hines, director of emergency management, emphasized the considerations that went into planning for an event that drew more than 50,000 attendees. He said, “We had to consider several anomalies when planning The Game. Post COVID-19, students were able to tailgate again, and we were monitoring current events and how they may impact the game. We decided to increase security on and off the field.”

The planning process was a collaborative effort, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders. Public Safety’s emergency management and police worked with on- and off-campus partners, including emergency services, city and municipal officials, athletics, and facilities, to create a safe and secure environment for all attendees.

Dan Killen, associate director of security operations, said, “We plan for the worst and hope for the best. The Game is not just a football game, it is an event, and it is our job to have a contingency plan in place.”

The security presence extended beyond Public Safety, with personnel from AMR, New Haven Health Hospital, New Haven Fire Department, Yale Emergency Medical Services, and local police from New Haven and West Haven actively participating. Harvard University also had uniformed officers on hand.

Crisis communication and emergency operation plans were created to coordinate and communicate with the partners in the event of an emergency.

“Duane Lovello did a phenomenal job by taking the lead and coordinating the planning for The Game,” said Killen. “The increased presence made a difference, and everyone had a great time.”