Get to know F&S: Robin MacMillan

The St. George campus is integrated into a unique urban setting, inviting both the benefits and challenges of city life. Special constables like Robin MacMillan respond to calls for service throughout campus while employing sensitivity to foster a safe and equitable environment.

“You really don’t know what hat you’ll be wearing on any given day,” said MacMillan. “I love the unpredictability: you never know what to expect yet there is a fixed approach in terms of handling situations.”

Special constables defuse challenging situations on campus, such as harassment, mischief, theft, fraud, and students in distress by proactively monitoring the campus and responding to incidents reported to their 24/7 communications centre.

“My main source of job satisfaction is helping those with mental health struggles get the help they need through the university’s support system.”

MacMillan’s focus on mental health reflects the university’s 2021 mandate targeting Campus Safety’s role in assisting students going through mental health crises. The mandate requires Campus Safety team members to undergo additional training on several topics: equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and the de-stigmatization of mental health issues.

MacMillan plans to further her understanding of mental health through formal education.

Prior to joining the F&S team in 2019, MacMillan didn’t realize her passion for law enforcement. Graduating with a bachelor of science in biology and getting a master’s in teaching, she had a steady career in the IT industry.

MacMillan always had an aptitude for martial arts—she was a four-time champion, last competing in 2018. She also had a sustained interest in teaching, which inspired her to blend the two passions by opening her own martial arts gym. The autonomy of owning her own gym made her realize she wanted to grow beyond a desk job, which propelled her to change her career change to become a special constable.

As a special constable, MacMillan uses her training in physical discipline and her drive to foster a safe environment on campus for members of the St. George community.

“I really enjoy the teamwork aspect of my job,” said MacMillan. “My team provides a strong sense of community and always makes me feel supported in helping others.”