Gadsden, AL – It’s been a year since Jay Freeman took on the role of the first chief of the Gadsden State Community College Police and Public Safety Department. Reflecting on his tenure, Freeman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the college community. “I have not taken the opportunity to serve Gadsden State for granted,” he said. “Because of the hard work of our dedicated staff, we have achieved many accomplishments.”
In March 2023, Gadsden State announced the creation of a new police department to serve its five campuses across Calhoun, Etowah, and Cherokee counties. Previously, the college operated with a security department only. “This is the right thing to do for our students, our employees and our community,” stated Dr. Kathy Murphy, president of Gadsden State. “We want to ensure that our students have the best college experience by providing them with a safe and secure place of learning.”
Freeman was appointed to lead the new department on May 26, 2023, and officially began his role on July 3, 2023. Over the past year, he has been recognized for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the campus communities. “He not only has enhanced our safety and security, but he has also fostered a sense of collaboration among students, faculty, staff and the communities we serve,” Murphy said. “I am appreciative of his exceptional service in building a strong, respected police department at Gadsden State.”
The Gadsden State law enforcement officers, under Freeman’s leadership, have undertaken complex investigations, conducted interviews, collected evidence, and prepared case files. Meanwhile, public safety officers focus on protecting property, performing building inspections, securing premises, and deterring criminal activity. “We have a strong team, which is so important,” Freeman emphasized. “Effective leadership, communication and access to resources contribute to a productive collaboration but it all comes down to having people understand each other and work well together.”
Currently, Freeman supervises 13 full-time employees, seven part-time employees, and two reserve officers. He is proud of the dedicated staff who ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff at Gadsden State. Under his leadership, the department has enhanced training standards and programs, including crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, and cultural sensitivity training. “We ensure that all officers are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to handle various safety and security challenges effectively,” he said. “This commitment to continuous improvement has positioned the Department as a leader in campus safety.”
The Police and Public Safety Department also engages in community outreach programs, offering free women’s self-defense training and various training courses for local law enforcement agencies. These courses include advanced first aid, tactical medicine, active shooter training, and fire extinguisher safety. “By sharing resources and expertise, we aim to create a safer environment for everyone and ensure that officers are well prepared to handle the diverse challenges they face,” Freeman stated.
Freeman and his staff created the Cardinal Safety Training Program for employees, offering training in CPR, the use of automated external defibrillators, administering medication to reverse opioid overdoses, and self-defense. “We will continue to create opportunities for our employees by providing essential training and development opportunities,” Freeman said. “Employees who feel valued and invested in are more likely to have a positive attitude and be productive.”
Looking ahead, Freeman expressed pride in the accomplishments of the past year and optimism for the future. “I’m looking forward to seeing where tomorrow’s leaders will be coming from,” he said. “It all started with this current team, and we will continue to build something special.”
