When Cliff Parker assumes the responsibilites of Town of Elon police chief March 5, he is beginning more than a new job; he is returning home.

“I love Elon University and the community, and thought it was a great opportunity to come back and serve the community and get the chance to become chief,” he said.

Parker applied for the position after LaVell Lovette, the former police chief, announced her retirement. Mike Dula, town manager for the Town of Elon, and an interview committee selected Parker as the new Town of Elon police chief. Parker will be sworn in, following his retirement as special agent at the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation on March 1.

The Town of Elon received between 70 and 80 applications, but Parker’s previous experience and connection to the town determined the interview committee’s final selection, according to Dula.

“I think it’s just part of the package of his experience,” Dula said. “He is familiar with the university and has had contact with it over the years and has a lot of knowledge of the role of the community and the university and how they work together.”

Parker graduated from Elon with a Bachelor of Arts in history and a minor in physical education. Parker met his wife, Karon, at Elon University and they currently live in the town.

Parker worked for the Burlington Police Department for three and a half years before beginning his career with the North Carolina SBI, where he worked as an investigator and special agent in charge of numerous counties, including Alamance.

“Having 29 years in law enforcement has been preparation for where I am now,” Parker said. “I’ve lived and worked in the community the majority of my career.”

His service with the SBI provided Parker with the opportunity to work with a variety of law enforcement agencies, he said.

Although his previous experience exposed him to the Town of Elon Police Department, Parker has been meeting with Dula and the department to better prepare for his position as police chief. Parker has reviewed the budget, discussed structure for staffing and inspected the status of equipment, vehicles and training, Dula said.

Parker said he has already established a good relationship with the police departments in Alamance County, and believes he can rely on the department heads’ experience and advice.

“My goal is the same as the university and the folks of the Town of Elon,” Parker said. “We just want to work together to help folks experience the best quality of life that we can.”

Craig Andrews, police captain, is interim police chief until Parker assumes responsibilities in March.