SDSU Hires First New Police Chief in 30 Years
Gardena Police Captain John Browning to Start Dec. 19

Contact: Jason Foster
SDSU Marketing & Communications
Tel: (619) 594-2585/ Cell: (619) 992-0772
foster@mail.sdsu.edu

SAN DIEGO – (Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2005) – San Diego State University announced today it has hired Gardena Police Department Captain John Browning to serve as the campus’ first new police chief in 30 years.

Browning replaces John Carpenter, who is retiring after leading SDSU’s Department of Public Safety since its inception in 1975. Browning will officially join the department on December 19.

Browning, 52, has worked for Gardena’s police force for nearly 30 years. He joined that department as an officer in 1976 and steadily moved up the ranks until his promotion to captain in 1999. Browning also served in the State of California Police Division from 1973-1976, where he performed protection detail for state officials, including the governor.

“Chief Carpenter has done a remarkable job developing the department,” Browning said. “His high standards are reflected in the talent and skill of the officers and staff. I am confident that we will continue to be a positive force in this community that addresses the necessary law enforcement issues and participates in other activities that enhance the campus and surrounding environment.”

While working in Gardena, Browning’s accomplishments included developing a Chief of Police Citizens Advisory Panel, designing and implementing the community’s Adopt-a-School Program, and creating neighborhood police stations in local parks.

“I can’t thank Chief Carpenter enough for his long and dedicated service to this university,” said SDSU President Stephen L. Weber. “Captain Browning is an ideal successor – a seasoned law enforcement professional who is committed to the principles of community-oriented policing.”

Carpenter announced his pending retirement in December 2004. SDSU began a national search for his replacement in March 2005.

SDSU’s Public Safety department includes 27 sworn police officers and 57 non-sworn support employees. The department is operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week providing campus security and other services. More information on the department is available at www.police.sdsu.edu.

SDSU is the oldest and largest institution of higher education in the San Diego region. Founded in 1897, SDSU offers bachelor’s degrees in 81 areas, master’s degrees in 72 and doctorates in 16. SDSU’s nearly 33,000 students participate in academic curricula distinguished by direct faculty contact and an increasingly international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information, visit www.sdsu.edu.

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