University Police Force Chief John Eric Coleman is preparing the department for future expansion required to meet the challenges of a growing campus.The newest member of the force, Coleman transitioned to A&M-San Antonio in August with 17 years experience as a police officer and 12 years as a criminal justice instructor at the University of North Texas. Since arriving Chief Coleman has been “assessing needs, acquiring resources, and identifying improvement areas for the department.”
Officer Daniel Barrera, who was promoted recently to lieutenant, was a critical first step to “laying the foundation for the future,” Coleman said.
Barrera’s promotion provides new training opportunities as many police courses have rank requirements.
Beyond improving professional qualification training, adding a lieutenant to the force solidifies mid-level supervision for the patrol sergeants and strengthens the department’s chain of command.
Officer training and supervision are vital aspects in providing TAMU-SA students and faculty with a state licensed, professional, police department capable of responding to any type of emergency on campus.
“One of our main concerns is staying ahead of the curve with staffing and resources to provide for the safety of our students, faculty, and the growing campus community,” Barrera said during a telephone interview.
In addition to maintaining emergency response capability, the university police department faces many challenges as TAMU-SA grows and expands. Issues involving student housing and rules involving use of alcohol will soon become areas of concern.
Asked about training opportunities, Barrera said there is a Command Staff Leadership Series at Sam Houston State University he hopes to attend in February 2011.
The department currently provides police coverage for both the main and satellite campuses, but plans to expand in the fall of 2011 as new facilities open.
Amanda Aguilar contributed to this report.
