GREENEVILLE – A security officer with 21 years of experience in higher education has been named campus safety chief at Tusculum University.
Michael Mannings, who has served at Tusculum since 2023, was recently promoted to lead the 24/7 campus safety operation at the university. He had served as a sergeant since March and was tapped as chief after Tusculum conducted a national search.
“We are delighted to elevate Michael to this position after watching him perform exceptionally in his service to Tusculum for the last two years,” said Carrie Maggert, vice president of operations. “With his strong communication skills and caring demeanor, Michael will continue to connect well with our students, faculty, staff and guests as he provides a safe environment for everyone. He will be an excellent chief, and we look forward to seeing his leadership in action.”
Mannings began his career as an officer for at two security companies before he transitioned to higher education. He was an officer at Trinity College of Vermont for two years and then at St. Michael’s College in that state for 17 years. During his service, his duties have spanned a wide array of functions, such as patrol, community service, training and crime prevention.
His supervisory leadership has included policy development, site management and payroll. His skills include emergency response, crisis response, mental health response and de-escalation tactics. Just as importantly, he believes it is vital for officers to demonstrate they care for the people they serve and are ready to support them in times of need and celebrate moments of joy in their lives.
“I have performed security services with a solid work ethic and drive to make positive change to provide the best, most efficient and courteous and respectful service possible,” Mannings said. “My goal is to make our Office of Campus Safety the best we can become, now and in the future.”
Mannings has three objectives as chief. They are:
· Fostering deeper relations within the university through outreach from the Office of Campus Safety, always being ready to help anyone at any time
· Increasing training programs and efficiency with the overarching goal making Tusculum as safe and secure as it can be
· Helping the Office of Campus Safety provide the best service possible
He said he enjoys being part of the Tusculum family.
“I believe I will be able to help, contribute to and serve this community and my department with the style and integrity I have brought with me based on the knowledge and experiences I have accumulated within my career,” Mannings said. “I will pass those attributes on to those who work with me in our department to help them thrive within the community, and in this field in which we have chosen to serve.”
More information about the university is available at www.tusculum.edu.
