Chris Hopkins

As a dedicated Campus Safety Professional with a strong foundation in law enforcement and military policing, I bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to creating safe and secure environments for students, staff, and faculty. My journey began in military service, where I honed my skills in high-pressure situations and developed a keen sense of discipline and strategic thinking. Transitioning from the military to law enforcement, I further refined my expertise in public safety, criminal investigation, and community engagement.

In my current role, I leverage this diverse background to proactively address campus safety challenges, implement effective security measures, and foster a culture of trust and vigilance. My approach is rooted in collaboration and open communication, ensuring that all members of the campus community feel supported and protected. I am passionate about applying my skills to enhance campus safety and contribute to a positive and secure educational environment.

Outside of my professional life, I am an advocate for continued learning and development, always seeking ways to stay ahead of emerging safety trends and technologies. My goal is to build a safer campus through a combination of proactive strategies, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

With a diverse and extensive background in law enforcement and campus safety, I have built a career grounded in service and leadership. My journey began as a Military Police Officer with the 690th MP Company in the Florida Army National Guard, where I developed critical skills in security operations and tactical response. Transitioning to civilian law enforcement, I served as a Deputy Sheriff at the Covington County Sheriff's Department, gaining valuable experience in community policing and criminal investigations.

Building on this foundation, I advanced to a Police Lieutenant at the University of Southern Mississippi Police Department, where I led operations and oversaw critical safety initiatives. As a Police Sergeant at the North Carolina State University Police Department, I managed personnel and enhanced campus security strategies.

Currently, as the Assistant Director of Campus Safety at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, I leverage my extensive background to oversee and improve campus safety protocols, ensuring a secure environment for students and staff. My career reflects a deep commitment to public safety, effective leadership, and a proactive approach to security in diverse settings.

I hold a comprehensive educational background that complements my extensive experience in law enforcement and campus safety. I received my Basic Law Enforcement Certification from Mississippi, laying the groundwork for my career in public safety. I then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology from the University of Southern Mississippi, providing me with a solid understanding of criminal behavior and societal impacts.

Further enhancing my qualifications, I obtained an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate from the State of North Carolina, demonstrating my commitment to advanced professional development. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration from North Carolina Central University, which reflects my dedication to furthering my expertise and leadership skills in the field of public safety and administration.