Columbus State University has announced the selection of Debra Kennedy as the new leader of its University Police Department. Kennedy, who has dedicated over thirty years to the Columbus Police Department, will step into the role of police chief after serving as CPD's assistant chief across diverse divisions. With a bachelor's and master's degree from Columbus State, Kennedy's appointment seems to be a return to familiar territory.
In her tenure with the Columbus Police Department, which began in 1992, Kennedy had to rise through the ranks quickly and handled myriad responsibilities, including juvenile justice, narcotics, and homicide, among others. According to an article published by Columbus State University News, "I am deeply honored to accept the position of chief of police at Columbus State University. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the university leadership team, university police officers, and the faculty and students at CSU."
Stuart Rayfield, Columbus State President, expressed high hopes for Kennedy's impact on campus safety and police-community relations. Rayfield spotlighted Kennedy’s impeccable reputation in this community and the excitement among current officers regarding her upcoming tenure. Her extensive resume includes specialized training in prescription drug investigations and high-risk warrant execution, as well as her role as an adjunct instructor and membership in the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police.
Tasked with ensuring Columbus State's security and nurturing trust between law enforcement and the campus population, Kennedy aims to bring new policing strategies to the table. Her intent to "foster new community policing ideas that will strengthen the relationship between the University Police Department and our campus community," as told to Columbus State University News, reflects her commitment to service. Kennedy's role officially commences on June 1, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Columbus State University’s approach to campus safety.
