DeKALB – Over the summer, the NIU Department of Police and Public Safety began its search for its next chief. The university is now beginning interviews with candidates seeking the role.
The search was prompted after the former police chief, Darren Mitchell, retired from the NIU police department at the beginning of this year.
The university put out an opening for the position on its human resources services website. Search firms were then hired to assist in the search for candidates. Once candidates are selected, interviews begin and panels are held for the community, ultimately leading to the university’s decision.
Jason John was named the interim chief of police while the university continued their search for a permanent chief of police.
Matt Streb, chief of staff to the president and chief strategy officer, explained the timeline and process of the search.
“We look for a long record of integrity and experience,” Streb said. “I think someone who understands university policing.”
According to the NIU human resources services website, the chief of police is responsible for maintaining public peace and order and enforces all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and university policies. The position also includes planning, directing and managing public safety and emergency preparedness services.
“Somebody who’s going to work collaboratively with our students and faculty is really important as well,” Streb said.
As the search continues, the community will soon be able to learn more about these potential candidates.
“We will have the opportunity to bring finalists to campus, probably at the end of October,” said Streb. “The community will have each candidate go through an open forum, so the community will have the opportunity to meet the candidates and ask questions.”
The NIU Police Department hopes to have someone hired for the position by the beginning of next year.
“The goal is to have the search completed, and whoever is chosen in place, by Jan. 1 of next year,” Streb said.
