Leading Campus Security with Gary Ruth

Photo from the Bluefield University Directory

At Bluefield University, safety is about more than patrols and rules. It is about teamwork, trust, and leadership. Campus security starts with its supervisor, Gary Ruth, who has dedicated decades to keeping students and staff safe. His team sees him not only as a leader but as someone who sets an example for how security should be approached.

Charles Howard, one of the officers on the team, said Ruth is “great to work with,” adding that he “cares about his co-workers and is very reliable.”

Ruth brings a wealth of experience to the job. With over 32 years in security, including working at high school and football games, he has learned how to handle a wide range of situations calmly and professionally.

“We do not deal with many issues,” Ruth said. “Due to us being seen and active, the students behave for the most part.”

He added, “I still write parking tickets from time to time, but it is getting better as time goes on.”

Beyond handling day-to-day duties, Ruth has led projects like reorganizing parking designations for students and staff.

“My co-workers and I have worked on the parking designations with colors green and blue,” Ruth said. “We worked all summer, and we had some help but, about 90 percent of our work was ours.”

He added that the work is ongoing, and they hope to finish it next summer.

He approaches his responsibilities with a calm, steady mindset that sets the tone for the entire security team. Ruth believes that taking one step at a time and focusing on what can be done each day helps the team stay effective without becoming overwhelmed. His team works together to tackle any issues that come up, from minor conflicts to organizing large campus events.

“We do what we can,” Ruth said. “There’s only 24 hours in a day. You cannot get everything done, but it will be there tomorrow.”

He added that “it is all about doing your best each day.” When challenges arise, Ruth emphasizes patience and perspective. He makes a point to engage with students beyond enforcing rules.

“By taking opportunities to speak with them, like the café and the campus store,” Ruth said. “I have students holler at me all the time.”

These casual interactions help build trust and allow students to see security officers as approachable, not just authority figures. Ruth believes that effective communication is key to preventing issues before they happen.

“It is important for students to know we are here to help, not just enforce rules,” he said.

By being present, visible, and friendly, he fosters a safer and more connected campus community. Ruth’s approach to leadership and safety is grounded in respect and fairness.

“My parents taught me to treat everyone equally,” Ruth said, “and joining the Marine Corps exposed me to a diverse range of people.”

He also credits his faith for helping him understand that every person, regardless of their background or choices, has value.

“Every soul has value. It is rewarding to see you succeed,” he said.

Ruth believes in giving second chances and says mistakes can be opportunities for growth and learning. This philosophy guides how he interacts with both students and staff every day. For Ruth, the job is personally meaningful.

“I do this not for the money but for the safety of others,” he said. “I enjoy this job because I protect others. That is what I learned through my time in the Marine Corps and at the Virginia State of Corrections.”

His commitment and decades of experience make him a respected figure on campus. Combined with the support and teamwork of his department, Ruth ensures that Bluefield University remains a safe, welcoming environment. His dedication, fairness, and leadership have a lasting impact on the students and staff he serves every day.