The search for Elon University’s new chief of campus safety and police is underway.
Associate Provost for Academic Inclusive Excellence Naeemah Clark, who is on the search committee, said that they are aiming to fill this position before next semester starts. When it comes to looking for someone who fits the position, Clark said that the committee wants someone who is a strong communicator.
“I would hope that we had someone who was aligned with Elon’s values around inclusive excellence,” Clark said. “Students are thinkers here, and so I hope they will engage in conversation.”
Clark is joined on the search committee by 10 others, a mix of staff, faculty and one student.The agency Spelman and Johnson is also assisting in the process. Spelman and Johnson is a woman-owned executive search firm specializing in recruiting leaders for organizations, according to their website.
As the search continues, interim chief of police Doug Dotson will lead Elon University Campus Safety and Police.
Clark said that the interview process is standard. There will be a typical first-round interview and then they will narrow down the list. Following the first-round interview, if selected, the candidate will be invited to spend a day or two on campus.
The search started after former Chief of Police Joe LeMire retired on April 3. After five years as chief of police at Elon and 33 years in law enforcement, LeMire took a job as a business agent for a private company.
Chief Human Resources Officer Melissa Clodfelter, who is on the search committee, said that the committee is considering both internal and external candidates. Clodfelter said they just want to find the right fit for the position.
“I think what we would take to the future is that we continue to look for someone who’s interested in engaging the whole community,” Clodfelter said.
The role is listed on the university’s job board and on Spelman and Johnson’s website. According to the listing, the chief oversees a $4.2 million budget and manages 42 staff. The chief also contracts security providers for Elon’s Greensboro campus and oversees security operations for the Charlotte campus.
“In partnership with institutional leadership, the chief also supports planning related to the merger with Queens University of Charlotte,” the job listing states.
Elon’s Student Government Association Campus Safety Senator and sophomore Sofia Perez, who is on the search committee, said she is looking forward to meeting a candidate who is open to hearing a student’s perspective.
“I think what’s also really important, because there’s a new chief coming in, is making themselves more accessible, or at least, introducing themselves to the student population,” Perez said. “So that way Elon students are aware of who the chief is, and can kind of get to know them a little bit more.”
Perez said she has had many meetings with LeMire and his openness and desire to hear from students is something that she liked.
Dotson said that during this transitional period, he is looking to ensure the day-to-day operations remain steady. Dotson said in an email to Elon News Network that his goal is to provide stability for both the Elon University Campus Safety and Police and the university.
“I want the Elon community to know that their safety remains our highest priority, and that commitment does not change during a leadership transition,” Dotson wrote. “Our officers are on duty 24/7, dedicated to serving and protecting the campus. I encourage everyone to stay engaged, look out for one another, and continue partnering with us to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.”