UT Assistant Chief of Police Deborah Perry retires today after thirty-two years of service to the university.
She has served as a patrol officer, detective, assistant chief, and interim chief of police for UTPD. She also worked for Parking and Transit Services for several years.
“I was given the opportunity to work for Director A. T. Whitehead and chiefs Lawhorn, Griffen, Yovella, Washington, and Graham,” said Perry. “Each one displayed a unique style of leadership, and I was able to walk away with wisdom that assisted me in my role as assistant chief of police.”
“I am extremely grateful for Chief Perry’s contributions to the University of Tennessee Police Department,” said Jeff Maples, senior associate vice chancellor of finance and administration. “Her dedication to serving the department was evident during her tenure at UT. She will be missed, but we all wish the best for her and her husband Ray.”
Perry earned her bachelor’s degree with the assistance of the university’s fee waiver program. She was UTPD’s first female assistant police chief and graduated from the FBI National Academy Session #217. She also directed the department’s efforts towards earning accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
“My favorite memory will be all the staff and friends I have had the pleasure of working with and meeting,” said Perry. “It has been a wonderful experience to work in the many different roles I have been fortunate to have.”