In response to the armed robberies on the nights of May 10 and May 15, University administrators and the Department of Public Safety have emphasized the need for heightened awareness for all community members. Even so, student opinion is mixed on the two crimes, with some changing their habits and others saying they feel no less safe than before.

Last Wednesday night, a female undergraduate was held at gunpoint by two men in the parking lot outside Toyon Hall. On Monday, a male graduate student was similarly robbed by three men near the entrance of Crothers Memorial Hall. In both cases, the students were unharmed.

According to the University and Stanford police, these incidents are the first armed robberies on campus since 1998.

“This past week has seen an unusually high incidence of crime on campus and, of course, it is concerning for all of us,” wrote Vice Provost for Student Affairs Greg Boardman in an email to The Daily. “It is important that students, staff and faculty alike be aware of the recommended safety precautions and make sure they are taking appropriate measures to increase their own personal safety.”

According to Boardman, Stanford has “a strong working relationship” with the Department of Public Safety and is coordinating with Chief of Police Laura Harrison to beef up campus security.

The Department of Public Safety posted a community crime alert online with details about the two incidents and physical descriptions of the suspects, as well as public safety reminders.

Students are encouraged to be more aware of their surroundings, walk in well-lit places and travel with friends at night.

President John Hennessy also sent an email Tuesday afternoon to all students, faculty and staff, including information about the recent robberies and safety suggestions.

“The safety and security of Stanford community members is of paramount importance to the University and its leaders,” he wrote.

He added that he is working with Harrison and the Office of Student Affairs to ensure student safety and awareness on campus.

Following the armed robberies, the chief of police increased the number of personnel on patrol. In addition, the 5-SURE escort service has expanded its services.

Some students said they are making efforts to be particularly cautious.

“I used to go outside and talk on the phone with my parents at night, but I don’t anymore,” said Ellen Truxaw, a freshman.

Christian Tom, another freshman, agreed.

“I still feel safe on this campus, but now I definitely think about it a lot more before heading out to go to the library at 11:30 p.m.,” he said.

Others said they were relatively unfazed by recent events.

“I’ve never felt unsafe, and I still don’t really feel unsafe,” said Molly Weiss, a freshman. “But maybe if I were to be out late at night, I’d make the effort not to be alone.”

Sophomore Artit Wangperawong said he was walking around Lake Lagunita at night and would not have been scared “except for all these things telling me to be scared,” he said, referring to the numerous safety advisories.

Some students, however, said they placed little faith in the police’s response.

“I don’t feel any safer,” senior Krystal Quinlan said.