New Chief of Police Named at Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University officials have named Roger Lee Stearns, a seasoned higher education law enforcement administrator, as KSU’s newest chief of police, effective Feb. 1, 2014. 

Stearns joins Kennesaw State University with more than 20 years of law enforcement experience in higher education.

Stearns served as chief of police at the University of Texas-Pan American for the past four years. Previously, Stearns served on the police departments for Vanderbilt University, University of Texas Dallas and the University of Arkansas.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Arkansas and also attended the FBI National Academy in 2008. 

“We conducted a nationwide search for a chief of police and selected Roger Lee Stearns for this important position,” said Randy Hinds, vice president for operations, chief information officer and chief business officer at Kennesaw State, in a press release.
 
“Chief Stearns brings more than 20 years of community-oriented policing experience in a variety of large university environments. His extensive law enforcement background reflects his deep commitment to training and community-oriented policing. His proactive leadership style will help him develop a strong partnership and great rapport with the entire KSU community,” Hinds said in the release.

Stearns was chosen from among more than 100 applicants for the position, with four finalists selected for interviews.

The new chief replaces Ted Cochran, who retired earlier this fall after 30 years of service with Kennesaw State. 

As chief of police, Stearns will oversee the day-to-day public safety operations, implement and enforce established safety and security policies and procedures, and maintain positive relationships with faculty, staff, students and first responders.

He will oversee 73 employees, including sworn officers, security officers and administrative personnel. 

“With the direction that Kennesaw State University is going in and with the consolidation of the two campuses, this is a great opportunity to be part of something very positive," Stearns said in the release.