Katy Beth Boyers, Arts and Life Editor
The third candidate for director of public safety was introduced in an open forum Monday, Sept. 16.
Candidate John Warren has 36 years of law enforcement experience, 28 of which involved on-campus law enforcement. He has experience in managing emergency situations such as hurricanes, bomb threats, violent crimes, controversial speakers and VIPs visiting campus.
His last law enforcement position was as chief of police at the University of West Florida. He was appointed just after hurricane Ivan hit campus, and worked there until this last year.
If he is hired to be Samford’s director of public safety, he said he has a plan for the first 90 days, which include meeting with internal and external stakeholders and conducting an analysis on the strengths and weaknesses of public safety.
Warren said his ultimate goal is to have a student-centered public safety department. He wants to develop a student patrol program and develop campus partnerships with student organizations like SGA and Residence Life.
“Students are a great resource,” Warren said.
When it comes to policies and procedures, Warren plans to develop Standard Operating Procedures specific to Samford’s Department of Public Safety.
Warren said he has a lot of ideas and plans for Samford’s public safety if hired, which focus on a student-centered department and involvement.
