Guided by a steadfast dedication to strengthening its hometown communities, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is funding new public safety and crime deterrence enhancements for Savannah’s historic Forsyth Park.

Through the SCAD SERVE initiative, the university is investing more than $200,000 to purchase, install, and maintain state-of-the-art cameras.  This is a partnership with the City of Savannah and the Savannah Police Department. The cameras offer advanced pan-tilt-zoom control, high-definition clarity, and infrared-enhanced imaging, enabling continuous, intelligent monitoring that improves law enforcement response times and discourages crime.

“We are incredibly grateful for SCAD’s continued partnership and shared commitment to public safety,” said Savannah City Manager Jay Melder.  “This initiative adds an extra layer of comfort and security for everyone who enjoys Forsyth Park, from our residents to our visitors, while also providing additional capacity for the Savannah Police. Partnerships like this matter, and we appreciate SCAD’s ongoing investment in our community.”

This philanthropic initiative underscores SCAD’s legacy of giving and represents a new model of community service in global higher education—by providing funding for innovative design solutions to address our neighbors’ most urgent challenges. In February 2025, the university awarded nearly $1 million in grant funding to the City of Savannah, providing cameras, call boxes, and advanced tools and technology that are being installed in every district.

“SCAD has long been committed to safety across all of our university locations,” said John Buckovich, Vice President of University Safety.  “In 2015, SCAD allocated $1.6 million to become the first university in the country to bring ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology to Savannah, a system actively used by the Savannah Police Department to enhance citywide response and situational awareness. From my over 25 years in law enforcement, including service as Assistant Chief in Richmond, Virginia, I know firsthand that timely information and advanced technology save lives and prevent crime before it happens. Because SCAD’s programs and facilities are woven throughout the city, every investment in public safety benefits not only our students, but all Savannah residents and visitors.”

SCAD has been working closely with the City of Savannah and the Savannah Police Department to identify the cameras and technology features needed for Forsyth Park and determine their optimal locations. While SCAD is funding the cameras and installation, all systems will be fully accessible and operated by the Savannah Police to enhance public safety.

“Public safety depends on strong partnerships, and SCAD continues to lead by example,” said Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther. Their investment in advanced technology directly supports our officers in preventing and responding to crime. We’re proud to work alongside a partner so committed to the safety and vitality of our city.”