Fort Valley State University announced the appointment of Anita F. Allen as the university’s chief of police. As chief, she will supervise the University Police Department, including security planning, criminal investigation, legal compliance, surveillance and data management, safety training, and community engagement. Ms. Allen’s most recent experience includes service as a captain in the Albany State University Police Department. She will officially begin her duties on June 1, 2018.

“Incoming Chief Allen will help Fort Valley State University become a national model in student-centered policing,” said Dr. Paul Jones, president of Fort Valley State University. “She will move us forward in our progression as a campus where every student, faculty and staff member, or visitor feels safe at all times and where students feel that they have allies in the Police Department who are here to support their growth as students, professionals, and citizens.”

Incoming Chief Allen’s tenure at ASU has included roles as interim chief, sexual assault investigator, internal affairs investigator, training director, dispatcher supervisor, and public information officer. She has led the collection of evidence, the execution of arrest and search warrants, policy development, productivity assessment, leadership education, budgeting, and promotional material development. She has also been a highly visible spokesperson for the department, and oversaw coordination with other law enforcement agencies.

“I hope to lead, develop, build, and create positive change at Fort Valley State University,” said Allen. “My mission is to help students find purpose and be their greatest selves.”

Prior to her work at ASU, Allen served as a lieutenant, criminal investigator, and housing corporal in the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office. She was also the executive assistant to the district health director for the Georgia Department of Public Health. She earned a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina College of Theology and holds multiple certifications from the Georgia Public Training Center. She has served on numerous civic and non-profit boards and committees.