UT Police Department Chief August Washington has been named the new chief of police for Vanderbilt University. He will begin his new post on July 27.
“While we are disappointed to lose Chief Washington, we are happy for him and this great career opportunity,” said Jeff Maples, Interim Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration. “His vision and leadership have helped improve the department in many ways and we’ll benefit from his work for years to come.
Washington served at UT since July 2005. An interim chief will be named prior to Washington’s departure. A search for his replacement will begin in the fall.
“Our uniform and civilian employees serve our campus community every day with the highest level of care and professionalism. As we search for a new chief, we’ll look to build on the department’s progress and strong commitment to cooperation and service,” Maples said.
Washington recently was recognized by IACLEA, the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators, for his outstanding service and improvements to the department.
In his four years at UT, Washington implemented a career path for the department to decrease turnover and focus on development and advancement. Other improvements include enhancements to department communications, community relations, the campus security program and community outreach.
Police presence improved during Washington’s tenure by establishing a Community Service Officers unit that utilizes marked vehicles and uniformed personnel to assist with campus security. Officers also have increased mandatory training.
Washington also initiated the department’s bid for accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The process involves a comprehensive evaluation of the department’s ability to prevent and respond to crime, deliver services and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies, among other standards. CALEA officials visited campus in April and a decision is pending.
Prior to joining UTPD, Washington was the deputy director of safety and security for the University of Southern California. He has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience. He has a bachelor’s degree in general studies with a focus on behavioral science from the University of Southwestern Louisiana and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Grambling State University. He also has taught college-level criminal justice courses and has extensive training on crime prevention, emergency preparedness and community policing.