The Vanderbilt University Police Department has earned accreditation from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation program of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police.
The official certificate was accepted by August Washington, Vanderbilt police chief and an assistant vice chancellor, April 8 at the TACP meeting in Nashville.
“Being recognized by such an esteemed group of professionals truly exemplifies the university’s commitment to safety and professionalism,” Washington said. This is yet another milestone in our mission to become a model of excellence in campus policing.”
To achieve accreditation with TLEA, Vanderbilt voluntarily submitted to a process of enhancing its professionalism and effectiveness utilizing 152 law enforcement standards and participating in a thorough on-site assessment. The standards address a variety of areas including organizational, operational and budget management practices. The program is intended to encourage cooperation, recognize professional standing, encourage professional services and ensure public safety throughout Tennessee.
“The standard of excellence that is met through this process is to be admired,” said David Beams, president of TACP. “We are proud to recognize the hard work of this department and its staff.”
Jerry Fife, vice chancellor for administration at Vanderbilt, said the TACP accreditation “demonstrates the university’s support of the department’s ongoing mission to provide superior police, security and community services, while being held to the highest level of professional accountability.”
Contact: James Perry, (615) 726-8227