From blockbuster-worthy tornadoes to the relentless force of Category five hurricanes and the unexpected plot twist of a global pandemic, the script of reality seems straight out of Hollywood. Yet, in the halls of academia and amidst the bustling energy of college life, the need for preparedness could not be more real. Despite these challenges, Xavier remains steadfast in its motto: “Fear Nothing. Press Forward." Now, with Maxwell Milam joining the Xavier University Police Department (XUPD) as our new Emergency Management Coordinator, the institution stands better prepared than ever to live up to this creed. 

Milam, originally from Jackson, Mississippi, began his journey into emergency management at the University of Mississippi. His early experiences in high school football, where he learned the value of teamwork and strategic planning, now serve him well in his new role at Xavier. When asked to compare himself to an ingredient in his beloved New Orleans gumbo, Milam chose salt—a simple choice with profound implications, as salt not only enhances flavor but also acts as a stabilizer and binder, qualities crucial in managing natural disasters and emergencies. 

Milam’s dedication to his field was solidified through internships with local emergency management authorities, leading him to further hone his skills during his tenure as an AmeriCorps VISTA with the City of New Orleans. Under the tutelage of seasoned professionals, Milam gained invaluable experience that laid the groundwork for his current position at Xavier University. 

Xavier University of Louisiana President Reynold Verret expressed enthusiasm about what Milam brings to the university in terms of safety stating “Xavier is fortunate that Maxwell is joining the university. His expertise and experience in Emergency Management and Homeland Security will strengthen and re-imagine safety at Xavier to assure its preparation and readiness through the education of the staff, faculty, and students and the necessary cooperation with external agencies.” 

XUPD Chief Changamire C. Durall anticipates Milam’s contributions to the emergency management team and emphasizes his role in mitigating, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters and safeguarding the community. 

In the spirit of Saint Katharine Drexel’s timeless question, “Do they, too, not deserve the best?” Xavier remains resolute in its commitment to excellence. With every endeavor, the university strives to surpass expectations, create an environment where growth and academic excellence flourish hand in hand, and re-imagine what safety looks like on an HBCU campus. 

Milam echoes Chief Durall’s expectations and plans for what he will do to keep the Xavier University of Louisiana family safe during times of stress and crisis. Learn more about Milam’s goals through a Q & A style interview below. 

 

Q: Can you discuss your approach to training and educating the Xavier University community about emergency procedures and safety protocols? 

A: One of the key things I think is important, and I am looking forward to it, is community outreach. It is important, and it is something I took very seriously in my last position. We must realize that not everyone who goes to Xavier and lives in this area is from Louisiana, and not everyone has experience with hurricanes, and now that tornadoes are becoming more common in this area, where they historically were not, effective communication is key. 

Q: How do you envision collaborating with local law enforcement and other officials to enhance campus safety? 

A: It is all about forming relationships. Coming from working with the city of New Orleans, many of those relationships are already in place. I also look forward to going out and meeting the community in the 2nd and 6th districts, as well as meeting the firehouses local to the Xavier community. I want to ensure that the first time I meet them is not during an emergency. It is also important to meet with the extremely large VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters) such as [the] Red Cross, Salvation Army, Red Crescent, and COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disasters). I have worked closely with many of these groups during my time with NOLA-Ready.  

Q: How do you plan to keep the students engaged with the latest safety protocols? 

A: First, I would like to work with professors and request a few minutes to incorporate a safety introduction during first-year students’ orientation. I plan to continue the messaging throughout their college careers by conducting seminars or even teaching classes on what to do in the event of a hurricane, fire, or mass emergency so people will know what actions to take. 

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have received regarding your line of work? 

A: It is important to build relationships because no solitary group can do everything. The Xavier police cannot handle everything, so we must form relationships with student housing, student affairs, and other entities. Since we are a small school, we need relationships with the NOPD and New Orleans Fire Department. Therefore, relationship building is key. 

Q: “What does it mean to you to work at a historically Catholic HBCU (Historically Black College or University)?” 

A: It is a unique experience! Xavier does a wonderful job of preserving its uniqueness. The family environment that this university fosters is special.