Veteran law enforcement executive brings more than two decades of experience as Hampton expands its focus on public safety, technology, data and community-centered policing
HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University has appointed Alfred S. Chandler Jr. as chief of police, bringing an experienced law enforcement executive to the University as it strengthens the role of public safety in supporting student success, institutional growth and a rapidly changing campus environment.
Chandler brings more than 24 years of law enforcement experience and most recently served as chief of police for the City of Suffolk, Virginia. His career reflects a steady progression through the profession, from the early ranks of policing to detective, master police officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, deputy chief and chief. At Suffolk, he led more than 200 sworn officers and 56 civilian employees and managed a $29 million budget.
As chief in Suffolk, Chandler expanded body-worn camera deployment, implemented de-escalation and use-of-force training, established a mental health initiative and developed the department’s first dedicated training facility. His work also included strengthening accountability systems and expanding community engagement through initiatives including “Coffee with a Cop” and the department’s first chief-led digital communications platform.
Chandler holds a Master of Science in criminal justice from Saint Leo University and has completed executive and professional development programs through the FBI National Academy, the West Point Leadership Course and the 111th Command Institute for Law Enforcement Executives.
His appointment follows 15 years of service by former Hampton University Police Chief David Glover and marks a new chapter in the University’s approach to campus safety.
Building on 15 Years of Service
Hampton University recognizes Glover for 15 years of leadership and service to the University community. His tenure provided continuity and institutional knowledge through a period of significant change in higher education and public safety.
Chandler’s appointment builds upon that foundation while positioning Hampton for the demands of the next era.
“Chief Glover served Hampton University with dedication for 15 years, and we are grateful for the commitment he brought to protecting our students and our community,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams ‘83.
“As Hampton advances, our approach to public safety must advance with us. Chief Chandler understands that safety is fundamental to student success and that modern policing requires leadership, trust, sound data, strong relationships and the responsible use of technology. His experience leading a complex municipal police department will help us strengthen that mission while remaining grounded in the values that have guided Hampton since 1868.”
From the Ranks to the Chief’s Office
Chandler’s career provides him with experience across nearly every level of law enforcement leadership.
During his tenure with the Suffolk Police Department, he served as a police officer, detective and master police officer before advancing through supervisory and command positions as sergeant, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief. His assignments included criminal investigations, SWAT operations, crisis negotiation, search and rescue, school resource officers, violent crimes, special investigations and executive leadership. He ultimately served as Suffolk’s chief law enforcement officer, with responsibilities spanning public safety, homeland security and emergency management.
As chief in Suffolk, Chandler expanded body-worn camera deployment, implemented de-escalation and use-of-force training, established a mental health initiative and developed the department’s first dedicated training facility. His work also included strengthening accountability systems and expanding community engagement through initiatives including “Coffee with a Cop” and the department’s first chief-led digital communications platform.
Chandler holds a Master of Science in criminal justice from Saint Leo University and has completed executive and professional development programs through the FBI National Academy, the West Point Leadership Course and the 111th Command Institute for Law Enforcement Executives.
Public Safety in the Age of Data, AI and Digital Transformation
The appointment comes as Hampton University expands its institutional capacity in data, artificial intelligence, technology and digital engagement. Those advances are changing how universities educate students and conduct research, but they are also reshaping how institutions think about safety, emergency preparedness, communications, cybersecurity coordination and risk.
“Public safety is an institutional responsibility and an investment in the environment our students, faculty and staff need to succeed,” said Robert Pompey, Chief Financial Officer at Hampton University.
“As the University grows its capabilities in data, AI and digital systems, we also have an opportunity to examine how those tools can responsibly support preparedness, resource deployment, accountability and communication. Chief Chandler brings the operational experience and executive discipline to help Hampton build a public safety function prepared for the complexity of today’s university environment.”
Chandler’s record emphasizes community-centered policing, officer development, accountability and engagement. In his application to Hampton, he described effective university policing as a partnership among leadership, faculty, staff and students, with safety, inclusion and student success closely connected.
A New Chapter in a Continuing Commitment
As Chandler returns to the chief’s office, he will lead a Hampton University Police Department whose mission is closely connected to the University’s academic enterprise and residential community.
His charge will include strengthening relationships with students, faculty and staff; investing in officer training and development; examining opportunities to use data and technology responsibly; enhancing preparedness and accountability; and building partnerships across Hampton and the surrounding community.
For Hampton University, the next era of campus safety will be defined not simply by enforcement, but by readiness, intelligence, trust and service.
About Hampton University
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is one of the nation’s strongest Historically Black Colleges and Universities and a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution. For more than 150 years, Hampton has prepared world-ready leaders of character and consequence through a distinctive educational experience grounded in academic excellence, leadership, innovation, and service.
Home to students from 44 states and 32 countries and territories, the University is nationally recognized for groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer research, cybersecurity, marine and environmental science, and other disciplines that address society’s most pressing challenges. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton continues to advance discovery, strengthen communities, and prepare graduates to lead with purpose in an increasingly interconnected world. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu.
