Working from Internal to External, Insight into the Lived Experience of Campus Police Officers in the Support of Student Success

Date of Award

5-1-2025

Degree Name

Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Department

School of Education and Health Sciences

Advisor/Chair

Matthew Witenstein

Abstract

Campus police officers serve a complex role within higher education. Caught between students and the university, they must navigate intricate bureaucratic systems, involving laws, and uphold university policies. The following study employed narrative inquiry methodology with 21 sworn campus police officers from universities across the United States exploring their lived experiences and perspectives. Findings revealed officers deviated from traditional police methods and perceive themselves as guardians and educators within the larger university. They prioritize community-oriented policing and relationship-building over traditional law enforcement. They find purpose in contributing to student development and campus safety by collecting non-traditional methods in which officers engage with their campus community to support learning and belonging. From these experiences, they develop a strong sense of belonging stemming from positively engaging in student lives. Narratives illuminate the potential for universities to acknowledge and amplify the diverse roles of campus police. Identifying recognition and student investment opportunities can enhance campus safety and build trust within the campus community. The study challenges traditional law enforcement paradigms by highlighting the importance of relationship-building, student engagement, and collaborative educational opportunities.

Keywords

Criminology, Education, Education Policy, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Administration

Rights Statement

Copyright 2025, author.

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