Central Methodist University’s new campus safety supervisor, James Cole, says that after 32 years of working in law enforcement from behind a desk, one of the things he’s most looking forward to in his new job is getting to be on his feet for most of the day.
The other is using that time walking around as a way to continue his lifelong passion of serving people.
“Working with the public, helping people, that’s just been my nature,” said Cole, who began his new role last month. “I decided I wanted to do it when I was 17. This isn’t a law enforcement position, but I’m excited to still be working for the public and serving people.”
Cole began his career in public service and law enforcement after graduating from Slater High School in 1989. He served eight years in the Missouri Army National Guard while also starting his law enforcement career, attending the police academy and then working for the Glasgow Police Department for 10 years, including three as police chief. He then served on the Mid-Missouri Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force, covering six counties throughout his five-year stint with the organization.
Most recently, Cole was the police chief for the city of Salisbury, where he served in the role for 17 years. He intended to work one more year before retiring, but upon learning of the campus safety supervisor position, he changed his plans.
“This position came open, and I thought it was a great fit,” he said. “I fell in love with the job description, and I’m happy I was able to retire from law enforcement and start a second career.”
In his new role, Cole oversees a team of three other campus safety officers, which he called “a well-organized machine.” The team is responsible for maintaining building security and responding to the security related needs of students or staff members across campus. Campus safety is also responsible for parking enforcement and issuing parking permits, which students, faculty, and staff can obtain through their myCMU account.
As a father of four, Cole understands the importance of campus safety for both students and families who are considering Central, and he feels confident in his experience and that of the rest of his staff to be able to handle anything the job requires.
“This isn’t a law enforcement position, but I come in with that skill set available if the need arises,” he said, adding that other members of the safety staff come from a military background, making them “well equipped to handle tough situations.”
Outside of his duties on campus, Cole enjoys being outdoors camping, traveling, and playing golf. He resides in Salisbury with his wife and the youngest of their four children.