Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department Celebrates Two Years of Growth, Service and Community Impact

GADSDEN, AL – This month marks a significant milestone for Gadsden State Community College and its surrounding communities as Chief Jay Freeman and the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department celebrate two years of service, progress, and purpose. Since its formation, the department has made remarkable strides across the college’s five campuses and the three counties it proudly serves.

Before Chief Freeman’s arrival, Gadsden State did not have any sworn law enforcement officers. Today, the department stands as a blended force of sworn police officers, public safety personnel, and non-sworn staff—all working in unity to protect, serve, and build lasting relationships. This transformation has been a success story rooted in leadership, training, and a deep commitment to customer service.

Under Chief Freeman’s leadership, the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department has not only established a foundation of safety and trust but has become a model of community-focused policing in higher education and beyond. “No one campus is the same—just like the communities we serve,” said Chief Freeman. “Every area deserves tailored relationships, and that begins with listening first, being respectful, and offering excellent customer service. That’s how I was raised, and that’s how we operate every day.”

What began as a vision has quickly grown into a dynamic and dedicated law enforcement agency that prioritizes relationship-building, campus safety, and proactive service. In just two years, the department has:

• Launched the first-ever Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) at Gadsden State, providing early support for students in distress.
• Established a dedicated Chaplain Program, offering spiritual and emotional care to both students and staff.
• Appointed a mental health officer, now deputized through the probate office, to assist with crisis intervention and provide individuals with access to critical mental health resources.
• Expanded training and outreach initiatives, including the launch of:
  A free Women’s Self-Defense program
• A Basic Civilian Firearm Safety Course focused on situational awareness and responsible gun ownership
• The Golden Rule/Bully Prevention Program, which is now being taught in schools across the region
• Formed local, state, and federal apprenticeship partnerships, providing students with hands-on experience and future career pathways in public safety and law enforcement.
• Added several new sworn law enforcement officers to meet the growing needs of the college’s events and daily operations across its three-county jurisdiction.
• Invested in essential equipment and resources that empower officers to safely and effectively serve a diverse student population and community base.

“Our team isn’t just trained—they’re committed,” said Freeman. “Many of our public safety officers and personnel had existing relationships on these campuses when I arrived. We’ve built on that foundation to develop one of the most well-rounded, service-driven departments in the state.”

At the heart of our department’s success is our emphasis on customer service. We believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect, listening to concerns before responding, and leading with clarity, compassion, and communication. Training is a constant priority—whether it’s for our officers, our safety staff, or our broader community. By investing in leadership development and skill-building, we ensure that everyone on our team is equipped to serve at the highest level.

“We’ve got an amazing team at Gadsden State—truly some of the best people I’ve had the privilege to work with,” added Freeman. “They come from all walks of life and bring diverse skill sets to the table.  The most rewarding part of this journey has been building relationships with our students—getting to know them, earning their trust, and being a daily source of support and safety.”

The department’s focus remains clear: continuous improvement, expanding community partnerships, and providing exceptional safety and support to students, faculty, staff, and guests of Gadsden State. By expanding our skill sets and supporting one another, we strengthen our ability to keep our campuses and communities safe.

“We’ve been blessed to build this department from the ground up—something not many people get to do,” said Freeman. “But this is just the beginning. When we lead with respect, focus on customer service, and treat people the way we’d want to be treated, we build something lasting. That’s how we move forward—together. Safety will always be our number one priority and the driving force behind everything we do.”

“In just two years, the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department has made a tremendous impact—not only on our campuses but throughout the surrounding community,” said Interim President Alan Smith. “Their presence has enhanced the sense of security, strengthened community trust, and built meaningful relationships with our students, faculty, and neighbors. Their success is a testament to the power of service, visibility, and leadership.”

For more information about the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department, its programs, or how to get involved in community safety initiatives, please contact Chief Jay Freeman jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu  or visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/safety-security.