UPD had its man all along.
A nationwide search for candidates for the position of director of public safety is now over. After the university spent weeks searching and sifting through dozens of applicants, Gene Burton, who was the acting director of public safety, has been given the permanent position.
Dean of Students Randy Hyman made the announcement two weeks after the three finalists for the position conducted public forums on campus. Hyman, who supervises the Department of Public Safety, had the sole responsibility for choosing the best candidate.
"I spent a lot of time checking references very carefully and it became clear to me that Gene Burton is right for this job right now," Hyman said. "The staff has really rallied behind him."
Although another candidate, T. Neil Moore, possessed seemingly greater qualifications on paper, Burton apparently made up for any deficiencies by simply having his department behind him. Support goes a long way during times like these.
Burton was "gratified, relieved and flattered" when he heard the announcement. As director, he will work closely with Hyman and carry out various goals for the department.
One goal is to continue following a 47-page comprehensive review of the department that lists 108 recommendations, some of which Burton has already executed. Included in the recommendations is a suggestion that UPD establish a community policing approach, which would increase interaction between officers and students.
Another goal is to make UPD one of the top university police forces in the nation. This is a welcome ambition from a department that has needed vision for some time.
"I believe the department is poised and ready to move forward," Hyman said.
Now, with Burton at the helm, drastic change at the Department of Public Safety is unlikely, but it is expected that the UPD will take action to fulfill these goals and continue on the present course.
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