Georgia Southern University Police Department receives Georgia Law Enforcement Certification

Georgia Southern University Police Department (UPD) has earned the Georgia Law Enforcement Certification from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, a significant achievement that provides a professional distinction for the Georgia Southern University Police Department. Only approximately 15–20% of Georgia’s 1,211 law enforcement agencies and the University is one of six agencies within the University System of Georgia to achieve this status.

Chief Trey Drawdy emphasized the collaborative nature of the achievement and the department’s ongoing commitment to excellence. 

“Every member of our agency played a part in earning this distinction,” said Drawdy. “I am extremely proud of their hard work and dedication. It demonstrates an ongoing commitment to making our best even better.”

The voluntary certification was achieved following extensive reviews of the agency’s policies, procedures and operations. Over the past two years, UPD has completed rigorous training, policy updates, procedural improvements and on site assessments conducted by law enforcement professionals from across the state. They also implemented significant operational enhancements, such as an overhaul of their evidence room.

It further reflects the department’s use of the best practices and high standards in law enforcement. The program provides a comprehensive framework of professional law enforcement centered on six foundational principles: professionalism, operational guidance, positive community support, transparency, ethical conduct, and liability protection.

“This wasn’t just about meeting requirements—it was about our officers showing who they are as a team,” said UPD Certification Manager Telisha Beatty. “Their dedication, long hours, attention to detail and commitment to doing things the right way every single day made this possible.”

Guided by its core values of integrity, accountability, excellence, and community collaboration, the department remains focused on fostering a campus culture that supports student success, academic excellence and an enhanced quality of life for all students.