Campus Police Tops Law Enforcement Challenge
September 23, 2025
Campus Police Named Top College/University Department
For the third straight year, the Walters State Campus Police Department received the
top college/university police department award from the Tennessee Highway Safety Office
Law Enforcement Challenge. A Walters State patrol truck was also chosen in an online
voting contest as the top cruiser among university or college campus departments.
“I am very proud of the effort our officers put forward in this year’s THSO Law Enforcement
Challenge,” said Greg Coker, chief of the Walters State Campus Police Department.
“Winning the top award for the third year reflects positively on this department and
the Walters State community. I commend the work of Sergeant Jonathan Smelcer, who
led our safety awareness effort, and other officers who assisted him.”
Winners were chosen based on several factors, including efforts to promote driver
safety, traffic education and awareness efforts, and policies for speed detection.
Walters State frequently shares safety reminders through social media, campus signage,
and participation in campus events.
THSO also recognized colleges that received second and third place in the competition.
Austin Peay State University finished second, and the University of Tennessee finished
third.
Campus Police officers are certified through the state’s Peace Officers Standards
and Training Commission. They have full arrest and investigative powers on Walters
State campuses.
The THSO is a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.